Past parts of the "About a Boy and a Wolf" saga:
1. The Fan
2. A question of consequences
3. A curious occurrence
Finally! Writing the follow-up to "A curious occurrence" proved a greater challenge than I anticipated.
Why? Well, me being a perfectionist by my own measure did not help. Also, this chunk of the saga serves as a bridge to future episodes and is therefore quite important.
I hope that you, dear reader, will find it both interesting and entertaining.
AaBaaW part IV: On dreams and lavender
By Agncec, 2022
DISCLAIMER! This work is not affiliated with DreamWorks in any way. I do not claim ownership of any characters from the movie. All events herein are purely fictional and sprung from the writer's imagination. The mirror Earth where the story takes place is different from ours (although there are overlaps), so if you enjoy things "dark and realistic" do not continue reading as you may find this disheartening.
This story plays out approximately five years prior to the events of the movie.
A flowery smell was in the air. Lavender, to protect the textiles from pest and providing a scent of freshness.
Mom always grew these flowers in their minuscule orchard. Where was she? Out grocery shopping? Oh there she was, walking submissively among a crowd of humans. How strange, seeing how she had been dead for years and years, unless...this was a possible restart? Like starting a videogame over again from the last save point.
"Mom?" he called out. "Mom!"
She turned her head and smiled sadly as he attempted to make his way amidst the crowds while she seemed to move further and further away.
"Mom! MOM!"
He desperately wanted to warn her to take it VERY seriously if she ever was to fall ill - and she was lost in the crowd which grew, murmuring louder and louder, drowning his pathetic shouting.
With a jerk Wolf sat up in bed, panting hard, a lump of ice in his belly area. He needed a minute to get his bearings. Usually he'd sleep dreamlessly so why not now? Why her, after all that time?!
Standing up he decided to hit the showers and attempt to wash off the remnants of the nightmare. But not even the warm water, a thorough shake-out, fur brushing and fresh clothes would alleviate the cold shards pricking and poking inside.
He needed fresh air, coffee and a distraction. There was somebody he hadn't seen in a dog's age due to certain abysmally awkward circumstances. Considering his own current horrible state of mind, however, awkwardness would be a great improvement!
Wolf picked up his phone. 6:30am on a Sunday. Why not chance it? Opening an encrypted mail app he sent a short message to the user afxilike:
"Hey, are you an early bird? Up for some breakfast? Offer expires 8am cus I'm hungry as a wolf! /W"
Next, he left a brief note to his friends on the kitchen table. Dressed in a casual, elegant disguise he walked over to the car elevator, hoping the noise it made wouldn't wake anyone up.
There was one more thing that needed doing.
He grabbed some tools and went to work.
When Wolf exited out of the tunnel entrance the phone jingled and he paused to have a look at the incoming message:
"Sure, why not. Where do you want to meet?"
He replied:
"I'll pick you up at your local Metro station 30 minutes from now. Ok?"
An answer arrived within seconds:
"In a wanted car? Are you joking?"
Wolf smirked and wrote, "You'll see 🐺", then took off under the hazy morning light.
There were few people out so early which was perfectly all right, Wolf thought, as he reached a rather posh neighbourhood downtown where few average joes could ever hope to afford living.
Once the Metro station came into sight he spotted a small figure dressed in linen shirt and pants holding a backpack, his head turning towards the sound of the approaching vehicle.
Stopping smoothly right by the sidewalk Wolf leaned over and opened the passenger door.
"Hey!" he said, smiling. "Glad you could make it. Get in!"
"Hello, Wolf. Long time no see."
Ethan looked very pleased and made a move to enter, hesitated, walked up to the front of the car and examined the front bumper before returning.
"Okay, what was that all about?" Wolf asked, slightly perplexed as the boy closed the car door.
"The registration plates. You changed them?"
"Sure did. I usually don't mind a nice car chase but today's not the day."
Lowering the sunglasses he took a long, investigative look at his passenger. The eyes and hair definitely didn't resemble the woman Wolf had got to know so intimately in the early summer. The facial features, the body movements and manner of speaking however, were uncannily similar.
"Have you forgotten what I look like?"
"Nah, just checking to see if you've grown and I think you have. Come on, buckle up!"
As they set off Ethan keenly evaluated the coupé and Wolf, noticing this, grinned with pleasure. He realised seeing the boy again made him feel real good instead of awkward.
"So, how do you like my car?"
"I have to admit it is pretty cool. Roomy and leathery. What's that smell, though?"
"Believe me," Wolf coughed, "you don't want to know."
"What I want to know is why you send out a breakfast invitations after nearly two months of dead silence. I thought you had given up on me and now I'm riding in your getaway vehicle."
"Guess I'm just full of surprises."
"Which is one thing I really appreciate about you even when you refuse giving me straight answers. That is quite some engine noise, by the way."
"She has to be powerful and smooth to handle whenever the heat's on." Wolf winked and patted the dashboard affectionately.
"You must have access to quite a skilled, tight-lipped mechanic."
"You're right and looking at him."
"No way!"
"Sure way! I've loved cars ever since I was a pup and about your age I met this cranky old guy who taught me the ropes. That was before I entered into the robbery business, of course."
"I don't believe it. I can't imagine YOU in a boiler suit under a dirty car, covered in grease and oil!"
"Didn't I tell you I'm full of surprises?" Wolf laughed. "Snake's still my better at diagnosing what needs to be fixed."
"What's he like?" Ethan asked with sudden interest. "Your friend."
"Who, Snake? Why are you asking about him?"
"Figure he is important to you."
"Well yeah, he's my best bud and the oldest of us. Hasn't got my confidence or planning skills, else he'd lead. Pretty cynical and distrusting and...wait! Why am I telling you all this?"
"Because I asked you and we are friends?"
"Sure we are, kiddo, sure we are, but..."
"And friends should be able to share confidences."
"Look, I've told you several times..."
"Yeah," Ethan interrupted, "I KNOW! Don't ask me about my work! Note that I didn't ask you what you're doing or plan on doing, I was asking about your family. You know about mine."
"That's a stretch!"
"Seeing how they're all gone, save for one, I'd say you know plenty."
Wolf started and shot the boy a searching glance. This was a new development and he found himself lacking an answer, knowing more about the kid's family situation than he'd ever be ready to admit. Suddenly he had an idea.
"Tell you what! Let's visit a road diner I know serves great breakfasts and then we'll go someplace important to me. What do you say?"
"Yeah, why not."
"And I almost forgot, there's something for you in the glove compartment."
Ethan checked and turned his head to stare at Wolf.
"Okay?" he asked incredulously, holding up a beige, saggy bucket hat. "What am I to do with this?"
"Put it on your curly head, of course!"
"It looks like somebody's nightmare. What gives?"
"I want you to be appear a little less conspicuous if we are to spend the day. Anyone seeing you is bound to remember that hair."
Ethan inspected the hat carefully and found some brownish grey strands hiding on the insides.
"These look like they're yours." he said, holding them up. "Wait... Did you wear this horrible thing?!"
"Sure did! Can't tell you about the circumstances though, sorry."
"Well, if you could suffer it who am I to refuse?" Ethan mumbled, pulling the textile hat over his head and adjusting it slightly. "I look absurd, don't I?"
"Just like I did and a great deal less recognisable."
"So now we are both in disguise. Planning ahead to avoid unforeseen consequences, right?"
"Glad you're taking my lessons to heart." Wolf grinned and switched on the radio, turning the tuner knob. "And the first lesson of today is: you always need a nice tune playing when riding in my car."
"It certainly adds to the overall experience." Ethan nodded sagely and kept tugging at the hat.
Wolf leisurely drove westwards, humming along to the guitar-laden song coming out of the speakers, his free paw drumming against the windowsill.
Don't know what you saw
but you know it's against the law
and you know that you want some more
I've heard it all before!*
He glanced at his passenger and they exchanged smirks at these sentiments.
Ahead was a nice straight stretch without intersections or cameras. The traffic was light and no police cars were the in sight.
"Hey, Ethan." Wolf said in a confidential voice, leaning over slightly. "What do you say... 'bout a little speed?"
"Would that be wise?"
"Heh, no. Most UNWISE! And that's what makes it so fun, don't you think?" Wolf put both paws on the steering wheel. "Hold on to yourself!"
Pushing the accelerator the car responded with an immediate roar and a surge.
"Whooaaa!"
Throwing a lightning quick glance at the boy, reading nothing but absolute delight on his face, Wolf pushed the car further until it began positively shaking as it hurled down the road like a behemoth. Stepping on the breaks the vehicle slowed down to a more law-abiding speed immediately, although with a powerful jolt.
"WOW that was amazing!" Ethan exclaimed exuberantly. "Better than a roller-coaster ride! NOW I understand why you love a good car chase!"
Wolf laughed long and heartily.
"Glad you liked it but that's enough for today. Care to show me what's in that backpack of yours? No hidden microphones I hope!"
Ethan pulled the rucksack into his lap and opened it, revealing a pair of undoubtedly expensive binoculars and a book named Birds of North America.
"Heeey, I got myself a bird watcher!"
"Yes. It is a peaceful, lonely hobby I enjoy doing quite a lot. Mother won't ask questions when I use it as an excuse to go outside."
"I might know of a place or two where we could go." Wolf mused. "By the way, how have you been doing? Like you said, it's been a while."
"Okay, I guess. Maxed out my grades and mother still signed me up for summer school to get me out of her hair. The less she sees of me the better she likes it."
"Aren't you being a little harsh on your mom?"
"Not really. Anyway, do you know the worst part about summer school? The building is old and its air conditioning awfully shoddy. When entire floors turn into steamers it's downright torturous and wearing shorts is strictly prohibited. I'm trying to fix that."
"Got a plan, huh? Care to share what you got in mind?"
"I have proposed a change of the dress code, permitting all males, professors included, to wear uniform skirts in class if they wish to. There are suitable sizes available but our principal won't listen."
"Don't guys already wear skirts in...whatsthename...Scotland! Right?"
"The KILT," Ethan said with emphasis, "has been worn by the Scots for at least 500 years and is not to be compared to any regular SKIRT. I did draw that parallel when speaking to the principal, however, and she wasn't amused."
"What do your classmates think?" Wolf asked, raising an eyebrow.
"Some say I am off my rocker, others are beginning to mutter a little louder in agreement. They are afraid of getting punished for rocking the boat and that is why I am taking this fight because good grades offer some protection. The principal DID call mother though, to complain about my alleged attitude problems."
"Hope you're not in trouble?"
"It was weird." Ethan frowned slightly. "I was expecting the usual, how I am an embarrassment to her and should be ashamed. Instead she goes on to say I'm doing the right thing and told the principal as much. She's been acting strange lately. If only I could figure out why."
"Um... Do you think the ventilation in my car is okay?" Wolf tugged at his shirt collar. "A little hot in here."
"Maybe it's ravaging hunger?"
"Lucky for me that's our diner!"
Wolf slowed down and made a left turn across the road, parking next to a low two-story wooden building.
"Okay," he said as after killing the engine, "let's get into character. Who am I?"
"Mister Oliver Poodleton, tutor of talented young people."
"You bet I am! And who are you?"
"Your devoted star pupil, sir, who has to wear an awful hat for failing to hand in my homework on time."
"Good improvisation there, I like it! Keep your cool and let's do this."
"It looks real nice." Ethan commented as they approached the entrance. "Homey!"
"Wait 'til you see the outdoor area. It's really something."
On the inside the diner looked rather rustic with wooden beams in the ceiling but the interiors were of a modern, clean design.
A kindly Hispanic looking woman welcomed them and she recognised Wolf immediately.
"Eggs Benedict, extra bacon and a double espresso as usual, sir?"
"You got it!" Wolf smiled, nodding courteously.
"And for your young company?"
"I would like the dry French toast and a pot of Ceylon tea, please. And a fresh orange juice too, if that's okay?"
"I think we can manage that. Anything else?"
"Throw in an orange juice for me as well." Wolf said. "Can't miss out on some vitamin C!"
"Will you have your usual table outside?"
"If that's alright."
"No problem, sir. I'll soon be out with your drinks."
Wolf headed towards the further end of the dining hall with Ethan in tow, through the open sliding doors and stepped out on the terrace.
"Oh!"
Ethan seemed overwhelmed by the beautiful view of a lush, friendly green valley below them.
"Liking the place?"
"They are certainly worth five stars out of five unless the breakfast is a downright disaster."
"Don't worry, that won't happen."
The two sat down at a table by the fence and regarded each other fondly as a light breeze brushed over them, causing Wolf's cheek fur to flutter comically.
"What's so funny?" he asked, noticing Ethan's grin.
"Nothing."
"Well, this is the first time I brought anybody here you know. Usually I'll come by myself."
"You think your friends would upset the establishment?"
"Afraid so. Terrified people is an occupational hazard if you are us, undisguised. Tell you the truth, I feel a little sad whenever the staff shrinks away from me when all I do is try giving 'em a tip."
"We want to be loved," Ethan said in a poetic voice, "failing that, admired; failing that, feared, failing that, hated and despised. At all costs we want to stir up some sort of feeling in others. Our soul abhors a vacuum. At all costs it longs for contact.*"
"Whoa! Where did that come from?"
"A book dealing with difficult existential topics. It's true, isn't it?"
"Too heavy for me but I sure prefer the first two. Ah, here comes our drinks!"
The kindly matron came carrying a tray and proceeded to set down the juice, coffee and tea. After she had left Ethan poured himself a cup and tasted the hot beverage gingerly.
"This tea is lovely. No cause for complaints concerning the coffee?"
"As good as I could ask for." Wolf replied, sipping slowly as he savoured the espresso.
"Now YOU share something about yourself." Ethan said suddenly. "I am tired of us always talking about me. What music do you like?"
"Hmm, I'm not too fussy. I enjoy 90s rock and classics from the 70s pretty well."
"What would you make of, say, Buddy Holly?"
"More funny sounding than good."
"Black Sabbath?"
"Jeez, you want to get me all depressed?! Give me Led Zeppelin any day! Your turn."
"Aphex Twin is pretty awesome."
"Aphex WHO?"
"His real name is Richard D. James and his music has become highly influential."
Ethan deftly produced an iPod player from his rucksack, scrolled through the lists and then handed it over.
"Have a listen."
Wolf had some problems getting the earbuds placed right inside his comparatively large ears but he could hear well enough and smirked knowingly.
"I oughta known you'd be into something weird."
"I can put on Metallica or Rage Against the Machine if you prefer."
"Bet that kind of stuff wouldn't be appreciated back home."
"Mom stopped listening to most music a few years ago." Ethan answered neutrally. "Sometimes she will play Bach, Schubert or Mendelssohn on the piano but I know for a fact she used to love Joni Mitchell. And Madonna."
"I didn't kno... uh, really? She's a pianist, huh?"
"The women of her family were expected to become above average pianists, providing entertainment and impressing the guests." Ethan grimaced. "Regrettably she got a SON and not a daughter. Even so, it falls upon me to carry on the torch regardless how I feel about it."
"You don't like playing?"
"Depends. I'm still taking piano lessons because she insists and... Resisting would make things worse so I put up with it."
Trying to think of an answer Wolf was spared the trouble when their orders arrived.
The delicious food kept them delightfully occupied for a while.
"That was quite a protein-heavy breakfast you just had." Ethan said after they were both finished. "Did you know that the Golden Jackal, a close relative to wolves by the way, can survive solely on grass?"
"Guess every genus houses some weirdos." Wolf scoffed as he wiped his black lips carefully. "If I had to do without meat it'd be the end of me!"
"Spoken like a true wolf."
"Yeah. And speaking of something completely different, how has my finding-friends challenge been working out for you?"
"At last!" Ethan smile thinly. "Would you believe I am actually becoming acquainted with somebody in my class? Unfortunately he is in Europe all summer but we keep in touch."
"That's good news and well done!" Wolf grinned broadly. "Tell me more about this new acquaintance."
"His name is Nicholas, "Niki" to his friends. I am permitted to address him as such."
"Niki? As in Niki Lauda?"
"Who is he?"
"You don't know?" Wolf seemed a little disappointed. "He is one of the best Formula-1 drivers the world has ever seen! Got into a real bad crash once, suffered terrible injuries and nearly snuffed it, but was back behind the wheels a few weeks later. Amazing guy!"
"It might not come as a total surprise," Ethan said slowly, "that I am very ignorant concerning most sports and record holders. I will look up this Niki Lauda. Any idols of yours are worth investigating, to unravel the mystery."
"What do you mean, mystery?"
"Why you became who you are. The thing you steadfastly refuse talking about."
"Maybe there isn't much to know?" Wolf answered and put on a bland expression.
"I will figure you out eventually, just you wait. Returning to the topic at hand, Niki is athletic and definitely beats the rest of us blokes at sports. I'm not sure why he responded so positively when asked if we could co-work on an assignment."
"I bet the two of you aced it."
"And you would be right, we were flawless! He is quite smart and socially skilled. I think his parents expect him to become a diplomat for the United Nations someday."
"Glad to hear you're making progress." Wolf leaned in, smiling encouragingly. "Keep it up and you may not need me much longer."
"Ow..." Ethan's face fell.
"Not now, next week or month!" Wolf spread his arms wide. "But I'm probably not the kind of company your mom would approve of!"
"You don't know my mother." Ethan replied flatly. "She doesn't give a damn what I do, how I do it or how I feel. One thing and one thing only is important: her social reputation! As long as things are kept quiet I could be best friends with Charles Manson for all she cares."
Wolf opened his mouth to deliver a protest and shut it just as quickly.
"Don't you get it? You're about the only adult who's paid me any serious attention since..."
Ethan's voice trailed off and he turned his head to gaze out over the valley below them.
Clearly a sensitive topic. Wolf thought, watching him closely. Memories of your late dad are haunting you, aren't they? Bet the two of you were pretty close. Sorry kid, I can't possibly be his stand-in even if your mom likes me.
"I won't just leave you and that's a promise. I'm sorry for being absent lately, there were some complications I had to work out. Anyway, we are here now in this moment, right? No reason worrying too much about the future."
"Guess so." Ethan said quietly.
"You don't really have to guess. Know! It's your tutor speaking and you'd better listen to him!"
The boy looked back at last and smiled weakly.
"See? You're still learning! Believe it or not, I'm glad to have you for company today."
Half an hour later they were returning to the car, feeling very full and satisfied.
Wolf had departed graciously, leaving behind a generous tip for the matron and her kitchen workers.
"Okay, let's go to that place now." he said, putting the seat belt on. "It'll take a while but I could always step on it, what do you say?"
"Please don't! Not after we have EATEN!"
"Just kidding, I'll drive carefully." Wolf grinned as he manoeuvred his car onto the road, heading north. When they reached Woodland Hills he took right and entered upon Mulholland Drive. Upper middle class houses passed them by and the dwellings kept growing in size, becoming ever more luxurious.
"This road is SO legendary." Ethan commented, studying the surroundings eagerly. "I have been here, of course, but only in the evenings. Mom would get invited by some posh friends and drag me along. Living here is a prized asset!"
"You'll be surprised the further east we go."
The famous drive eventually turned into a dirt road where few vehicles seemed to have any business. Sneaking a peek at the boy's puzzled expression Wolf grinned and stopped the car in front of the closed moveable barrier.
"End of the line! We're supposed to take the long detour around, IF we play by the rules that is."
The canine got out of the idling car, walked up to the barrier's locking section and busied himself for a few seconds, then swung it open without effort.
"Love a good challenge!" Wolf said lazily once he had returned to the driver's seat and drove through. "Wait, got to set things back to where they were."
Closing the barrier and making sure it was securely locked the journey continued.
"You sprung a really heavy-duty padlock like it was child's play!" Ethan exclaimed in amazement. "I have seen videos of very experienced pickers needing way more time than you spent!"
"Never underestimate my paws." Wolf replied with a satisfied grin, wiggling his digits on the steering wheel. "Thirsty?"
"Not yet, I think."
"I'm stocked up on water bottles. Just holler, okay?"
"Okay."
"In the meantime let's enjoy the grand scenery!"
Driving unhurriedly along the crooked, cracked road they finally reached the renowned scenic lookout and Wolf parked the car.
"What are you doing?" Ethan said dramatically. "We don't stop here!"
Wolf looked at him bemusedly, eyebrow raised.
"That's a famous movie quote."
"Is it?" He peered into the boy's face then smiled and opened the driver's door. "Anyway, this is the place."
They got out and walked up to the wooden fence, taking in the vast scene of northern Los Angeles basking in the morning sun.
"I have always wanted to come here but it never happened!" Ethan said happily, grasping the railing. "Amazing how the city manages to look both dirty and beautiful in an odd kind of way."
"That's where I spent most of my young years, long ago. Seeing it from up here takes me back. I had so many aspirations when I was a pup. "Dream Factory" indeed..."
"Mister Wolf?"
"Hey, don't you EVER go mistering me! Between the two of us alone it's just Wolf, and don't broadcast it!"
"Wolf." The boy flashed a smirk before turning serious again. "Why didn't you pursue becoming a mechanic by profession?"
"Well, what can I tell ya, Ethan." Wolf scratched the back of his head. "Guess some things just aren't meant to be. Or maybe that's how I used to think about it."
"What were your dreams? When you were a pup, I mean."
"Becoming a Formula-1 driver, what else? Niki Lauda was my idol and I thought, 'if a human can do all that, why not a wolf?' Then I found out wolves aren't allowed to compete because of our superior reflexes and yadda-yadda. So I went with the idea of becoming an adventurer like Indiana Jones and travel around the world in search of treasure."
"You certainly have parts of the doctor Jones looks and attitude down." Ethan looked sidelong at Wolf. "Main difference is you seek out treasure FROM museums, not FOR them!"
"Heh, touché! You could say I AM living out my childhood fantasies in a warped sort of way. It might not be perfect or even great but it's what I'm good at. I'd rather live this life than none at all."
Lapsing into silence they kept looking at the dozing city below slowly waking up, each occupied by their own thoughts and recollections.
"It is told," Ethan said suddenly and pointed towards the distant mountain ranges, "that once a soul becomes truly lost it will hopelessly strive to reach the horizon. The longing becomes so overwhelmingly painful, in the end it can't stand living anymore. That's kind of sad, isn't it?"
The story was new to Wolf and it struck an uneasy chord within him. Did it speak of morality, a warning against becoming a floater? Or perhaps mortality? Acting on pure instinct he put an arm around the boy's shoulders.
"Dunno much 'bout such things. To me it's more important to stay alive, make the most of what you've got. Hey, are you crying?!"
"No. I only got some dust in my eyes."
Wolf wasn't easily fooled and gave Ethan a little squeeze in the hope to provide a bit of comfort.
"I think it's time to move on and the day is young. Don't worry too much, you'll be okay."
"Yeah. I guess so. Thanks Wolf."
"Anytime."
Continuing along the famed road and reaching its eastern end Wolf drove into northern L.A., stopped at places of interest to tell a story or two from the days of his youth. Meanwhile, the sun burned hot and the car temperature kept rising.
"Have some water!" Wolf urged. "You don't want to become dehydrated."
"Good idea."
Ethan reached behind the driver's seat, grabbed one 0.5 litre water bottle. Having drunk his fill he offered the rest to Wolf who gratefully emptied it.
"Should I get another one for you?"
"Nah, I'm fine."
"You really DO think of everything."
"See why I'm leader of the pack?" Wolf grinned at the boy. "Being unprepared makes you slow. Being slow gets you caught so I try staying sharp and attuned to the environment, always."
"It's funny. When we first met I thought you were a very serious, dangerously angry person."
"I rarely get angry. Annoyed, sure, but not real angry."
"What makes you angry?" Ethan tilted his head.
"Planning on trying my patience to see what you can get away with, huh?" Wolf smirked kindly. "I don't like people stating I'm stupid."
"That is quite a common and reasonable cause for anyone to get upset. Want to guess what angers ME?"
"Your mom?"
"No. It is the hypocrisy she embraces, the bald-faced lying to oneself and others to keep up shallow appearances. 'Oh, I'm so noble and well-mannered, look at me behaving impeccably! I MUST be better than everybody else!'" Ethan said in a posh mock-voice. "I loathe the dinners she forces me to endure where all we do is talking rubbish, devoid of substance and meaning. People aren't themselves, it's all fake and I don't like that!"
"Hmmm."
"I DO like how unapologetic you are about yourself and your friends. I feel much calmer being with you than any gatherings of the supposedly sophisticated elite of society."
"Glad to hear it."
"Meanwhile, the papers are telling a wholly different story where you are vicious, dangerous predator no one should approach for any reason. It gets me thinking..."
Wolf listened without saying anything.
"How strong are you?"
"We can arm-wrestle at the next stop and you'll find out."
"A waste of time." Ethan grinned slightly. "You are lean but that doesn't betray strength. Ever been involved in physical fights?"
"Not my forte, I leave it to Piranha."
"You have, haven't you? I apologise!" Ethan added hurriedly when Wolf went very silent. "That was an inconsiderate inquiry."
Clearing his throat Wolf decided to go with a truthful reply instead of chastising the boy for snooping.
"Yeah, I've been in fights and last time it happened things got pretty grisly." He clenched the wheel, remembering. "What I did then made me avoid future physical fights like the plague."
"I see." Ethan mused. "Whenever you were angry with me there was cause for it and I wasn't so afraid of the anger as your disappointment. There's one thing that makes you different from other adults I know: you genuinely care. I don't fully understand why because, let's be honest, I am mostly a lot of trouble for you."
"Guess I'm just a glutton for punishment."
"These past two months I thought about it a lot."
"Okay, I like you, right? That's a good enough reason for me to put up with you."
"In that case, what are you like when you're drunk?"
Wolf shot Ethan a glare.
"What kind of a question is that? Do you think I'm driving under influence?!"
"No! I am curious because I know so little of wolves in general and you in particular."
"I don't get drunk. Period! Alcohol hardly has an effect on wolves anyway."
"What about drugs?"
"Never did drugs and I ain't going to so you can stop asking!"
"No need to snap at me, I meant no harm."
"Hmpf." Wolf shook his head. "You're really pushing me today."
"In my defence I've had a lot of time trying to figure out what I had done wrong considering your silence. Doesn't it make sense to consider other possibilities?"
"Do you want me to believe you thought I spent two months being drunk or stoned?"
"How would I know when you barely share anything about who you truly are? Apparently you're a clean wolf so things are fine, right?"
"You unruly pup..."
"As for me, I never intend to do any substances in my life seeing how they only serve to make people stupider."
"A good decision. Just make sure you stick with it throughout college."
"I will. The brain is our most prized asset, isn't it?"
"Agreed." Wolf shot the boy a warm smile in the hope of softening the atmosphere. "And I'd be wasting my time if yours wasn't up to par."
"Time with you is always the best time."
"Jeez, watch the compliments kid or you're gonna make my tail go rogue!"
"Sorry." Ethan grinned happily. "Merely stating the obvious. Where are we headed to now?"
"Someplace where we may get to see something pretty awesome. If we are very, very lucky."
After quite a drive eastwards along a winding mountain road the two came to a place of great scenic beauty, vast ranges rising up in all directions. They had obviously reached a popular spot because a whole lot of people were there, many holding binoculars and busily searching the skies.
"If fortune is on our side," Wolf said as he parked, "we might catch a glimpse of the California Condors nesting in these parts."
"That would be amazing! I saw one once, from far away. Bet everyone is here for the same reason."
Crossing the road they went a short distance into the rocky terrain.
"I must consult my atlas." Ethan sat down on a large stone, turning the pages. "Here... The California condor, Gymnogyps californianus, a vulture inhabiting the New World..."
In the meantime Wolf quietly kept an eye on the humans around them. An elderly couple made him uneasy. The woman kept shooting glances in their direction and when Ethan looked up to say something their eyes met. Immediately the woman started to walk towards them and sensing the kid's tension Wolf knew what was coming next.
"Well, hello dear! Aren't you Grace's son?"
"Yes, I am. How do you do, missis Lowell?"
"Oh fine, fine! Who is the gentleman with you?"
"This," Ethan replied in a surprisingly convincing voice and gestured at Wolf, "is mister Oliver Poodleton, my tutor. We are doing zoology studies today and he left it to me to pick the topic. I chose studying endangered species."
"A pleasure meeting you, mister Poodleton." Mrs. Lowell shook hands and looked a bit taken aback by the rough feel of his paw. "Isn't Ethan a marvellously clever boy? Always so glad to perform a little piano concert after dinner to everybody's delight."
"He sure has plenty of talent." Wolf agreed, glancing at the subject of the conversation who had assumed a poker-faced polite expression.
"Are you here in the hope of seeing the condors?
"Yes, we thought to seize the opportunity," Ethan answered primly, "combining education with a pleasant Sunday excursion. My teacher is very kind to drive us so far, at my suggestion."
"Can't say no to that kind of reasonable argument, can I?" Wolf chuckled, hoping he didn't appear too eccentric. He had an inkling this encounter would come back to bite them.
"I am delighted your mother managed to find such a courteous gentleman to handle your tutelage! Will you please be a dear and send her my warmest regards?"
"Of course." Ethan nodded, smiling neutrally.
"A pleasure meeting you and good luck with the studies. Ethan. Mister Poodleton."
She waved and went to join her less sociable husband who had been hanging back quite a distance away, glaring impatiently and occasionally tapping his wrist-watch.
Ethan turned around and put the binoculars to his eyes, obviously putting on an act of scanning the terrain.
"They are gone," Wolf said quietly in his ear, "and now you might be in trouble. She is sure to ask your mom about your new charming tutor and this is exactly what I didn't want to happen!"
"Maybe." Ethan replied, seemingly unconcerned as he scanned the mountain tops methodically. "They are not that close and in case you didn't notice mister Lowell abhors social gatherings. There is enough time to think up a story to pacify mother if necessary."
Wolf didn't feel very re-assured by the answer, for more reasons than he was willing to share.
The number of people began thinning out and when Ethan finally shrugged his shoulders in silent resignation they were the only ones remaining.
"We are at the wrong place at the wrong time, it seems. Should we get going?"
"I don't think so. Look east, 9 o'clock. High up."
Ethan raised the binoculars again and let out a shout.
"I see it, I see it! Wow, it's far away but I see it floating on the thermals! It's coming towards us! How the heck did you spot it at this distance?!"
"We wolves have pretty good eye sight and that's a big target. Could be an old male."
The gracious bird floated ever closer and Ethan gasped in joy.
"How can people think these are ugly, gross animals?" he said at last, following its flight. "They are magnificent! Have a look."
He handed over the binoculars.
"Very impressive." Wolf concurred, watching the mighty vulture up close.
Once the condor had disappeared over the western crest the two resumed their journey. The route brought them through San Bernardino, touched San Diego and continued north via the coastal Interstate 5 highway.
During the trip they made occasionally breaks to rest, eat, behold something interesting or look for other birds (although no species came close to the prior excitement).
The arms of Wolf's watch pointed squarely at six o'clock when he parked near a small Metro station in Long Beach. Ethan had insisted on going home by train as a precaution.
"Okay, final stop. Thanks for riding with Wolf Travels and come back soon! You'll have no trouble getting home safely, huh?"
"No." Ethan undid the passenger seatbelt. "I'm used travelling around the city this way."
"Until next time, then."
"See you, Wolf."
Having crossed the street Ethan looked back and waved before boarding the waiting train.
Wolf returned the wave and once the train got moving he joined the evening traffic.
Unlocking the front door to the spacious apartment where he'd lived his entire life, Ethan felt unusually light hearted. The distant sound of classical music from the Romantic era playing indicated his mother was home.
Bummer.
He exchanged the outdoor shoes for indoor ones and walked towards the source of the music to file report. It was annoying but avoiding it would only result in more nagging later. Crossing the large lounge he made sure to put his heels down loudly, announcing himself. The mother was in her work study as expected, stacks of paper sitting on either side of the computer monitor. Going through a file she appeared not to notice his presence.
"Good evening, mother."
"You are late in coming home." she said neutrally, not looking up from the paperwork.
"I have had a busy day."
"Busy doing what, exactly?"
Sighing over-dramatically Ethan opened his backpack, bringing out the bird atlas and binoculars, showcasing them like evidence during a trial.
At least her eyes were on him now.
"You have been bird-watching, starting seven o'clock in the morning?"
"Yes."
"Where did you go?"
"The hills."
"Which hills?"
"The ones in Angeles National Forest north of Pasadena. I believe you know them."
"Don't get smart with me!"
"I won't if you stop asking me stupid questions."
Mother and son glared at each other.
"I am of a mind to ground you."
"For what reason?" Ethan reached into the backpack again and produced a bottle of sunscreen. "Borrowing this without permission?"
"You know what!"
"Afraid I do not."
"Your case is getting worse the more you talk back! I want to know EXACTLY where have you been all day!"
"Since when do you even care where I have been, what I have been doing or how I am doing?" Ethan retorted sharply, staring down his mother without a shred of hesitation. "I did encounter the Lowells at Angeles Crest, by the way, and missis Lowell bade me to send you her warmest regards. I kept your reputation clean, as I know you want it, and if that is cause for grounding may I go to my room now?"
A few seconds of solid silence followed.
"You know that's not true, Ethan."
"It isn't? I recall differently and my memory hasn't failed me yet."
"Have you had supper?"
"No."
"Here." she stood up and handed him a 50 dollar bill. "Go buy yourself something to eat and come right back home when you are done."
"I will. Thank you, mother."
The boy turned and left.
Grace Landau looked about to say something but thinking better of it she sat down, frowning. Waiting a couple of minutes she eventually picked up her mobile phone, scrolled through the contact list and made the call. After its conclusion she leaned back in the office chair, breathing deeply as if in shock.
Some time later, hearing the remote sound of the front door opening and closing, Grace softly went into the hallway, silently watching her son prudently switch shoes. He started in surprise upon seeing her.
"Did you find someplace nice to have supper?"
"Yes."
"Are you alright?"
"Yes."
Still those guarded eyes and evasive answers.
"Please, come here for a moment."
Ethan hesitantly walked towards her and seizing his shoulders Grace could feel the body tensing up.
"Even if we do not always see eye to eye and regardless of what you might believe," she said slowly, "I still love you and want whatever is best for you. You know that, don't you?"
Her son made a head movement which could be either a nod or a shake.
"I trust your judgement in friends as long as they are GOOD at heart and that is why I am not going to ground you. Do you understand me?"
"Yes." he answered tentatively, holding out three ten dollar bills and a few coins. "Here is the change."
"Keep it, for a rainy day."
"Thank you, mother. I will go to my room now."
She sighed softly and released him.
Returning to the study Grace resolved to keep a vigilant but non-intrusive watch from that point forward.
Just in case.
Alone in his room Ethan laid down on the bed, gazing up at the ceiling, hands behind his head. The bizarre new behaviours of his mother left him utterly confused. Under normal circumstances she was easily predictable. Not so tonight.
Had she got in touch with the Lowells and found out about him being in the company of an unknown adult masquerading as his teacher? Shouldn't that trigger a brutal cross-examination, not to mention police involvement? And if it was all a subterfuge, then why? He couldn't figure it out! If only he could have phoned Wolf and asked for advice on the matter.
Standing up Ethan began pacing around the room.
Their friendship rested on a number of set conditions and he was unwilling to risk it by pushing further than he might get away with. Telling the truth to appease the nosy mother had been a risky gamble, meaning that if trouble came as a result it was HIS responsibility.
Finally reaching a decision Ethan felt sure what to do.
Friendships required trust, truth and sometimes sacrifices, regardless of the price you must pay.
In a place not very far off (geographically speaking) Wolf arrived home carrying a surprise: loads of Korean barbecue.
Everyone received the food gift with great enthusiasm and in the midst of them digging in, bantering about the last successful job and what would come next, a signal indicating an incoming mail sounded from Wolf's phone.
"Excuse me guys, I'll be with you in a second!" he laughed, stood up and went to check, sensing Snake's eyes on him while the others continued their cheerful chit-chatting.
As expected there was a new message from Ethan waiting for him:
"Dear W
Thank you so much for today. It was without a doubt the best one I have had in years.
I made it home alright but mother was behaving real strange. She demanded to know where I had been all day when usually she doesn't care. I delivered the greetings from Mrs. Lowell, hoping it would settle things. She did back down and gave me money to get something to eat.
When I returned she was behaving even stranger, touching me and saying she loved me. She never does that!
I suspect she may have checked on my story but why the strange acting if that is the case? Saying she trusts my judgement in friends as long as they are GOOD at heart! She didn't appear angry at all. Perhaps a little sad.
I don't understand! What would you say is going on?
Love,
-E
P.S. I really considered whether or not to bother you with this but seeing how we are friends I couldn't keep it from you."
Wolf shut his eyes. For a moment he felt a strong urge to delete the anonymous mail account and never reach out to the boy again before thinking better of it. The message spoke to and touched him. In fact, re-reading it made his guts contract slightly. Still, Ethan's timing couldn't have been worse.
"What's up?" Snake's suspicious voice rang out from behind him.
"Nothing."
"You look pretty bothered to be bothered about nothing."
"Stomach cramps. Excuse me."
Locking himself up in the restroom Wolf sat down. Here he would at least be left undisturbed for a while, no questions asked.
"Damn it Ethan, I didn't want to put you through this..." he muttered, considering the issue at hand.
The likelihood of Grace now knowing the truth was high. He did not doubt her being clever enough to figure it all out and hopefully conclude he never intended harm to either of them. Providing she HAD believed his honest offer at the very end of their one, shared night...
Figuring the kid wouldn't be able to go to sleep unless he received some reassurance Wolf typed and sent a reply:
"Hey. Can't say I'm an expert on mothers but I think yours might mean what she says. Don't worry about her, just trust me on this ok? I had a great day too. It started badly and you helped me out so I owe you one. Sleep tight! /W"
The answer came almost momentarily:
"I trust you. -E"
Wolf smiled, flushed for show, washed both paws and re-joined his friends.
"Feeling better now, eh?" Snake asked.
"Yeah. Had to be that hotdog I ate earlier. I thought it tasted off!"
"Sure, alright! Want the last glazed ribs? Shark gunned for them and I told him no since you couldn't fend for your own."
"Thanks buddy but I'm done eating. Go ahead Shark!" Wolf said and reached for his coffee mug.
To be continued...
* Lyrics: Happy Mondays - Loose Fit
* The quote is from the book "Dr Glas" by Hjalmar Söderberg