Sorry Readers, I hoped to get these posted faster. I will do better, I promise.
Ryder was sitting in a bean bag his pup pad rang.
"Paw Patrol, How can I help you?" answered Ryder, as he noticed it was Katie. "Oh, hey Katie. Is there an emergency?"
"Uh, no. No. I need to talk to you." said Katie "Do you mind if I come over."
"Of course not," said Ryder "You can come over anytime. You know that."
"Ok, I'm actually outside," said Katie.
"I'll be right down," said Ryder, now concerned.
"I'm actually in the elevator already," said Katie, as the doors opened and she stepped out.
"Katie?" said Ryder "is there something wrong?"
"Ryder," said Katie, " please sit down."
"Uh, Katie?" said Ryder "Did I upset you? Have I done something wrong?"
Katie sat down and took Ryder's hand.
"No sweetie," said Katie as she leaned over and kissed him. "You have never done anything but treat me perfectly. I love you. I have some news that is great for me, but might upset you."
"Ok," said Ryder, releasing a breath that he didn't realize he was holding. "Just tell me. I promise to keep an open mind."
"Ok." started Katie "You know I have enjoyed taking care of animals my whole life. I have taken care of the bumps and bruises for the pups for the whole time Paw Patrol has existed."
"Yes," said Ryder "are you saying you don't want to do that anymore?"
"No, not at all" said Katie "Ryder, I applied and based on my past efforts, I got accepted to Veterinary School."
"That's Great!" said Ryder "I'm so happy for you. You've always wanted to be a licensed vet. When do you, oh… leave."
"I would leave in two weeks," said Katie "I would be home on weekends. But Ryder I haven't accepted yet. You mean too much to me, I had to talk to you first."
"Katie," said Ryder "you have to go. This has always been your dream. I won't lie, I am going to miss you terribly. But you'll be back before you know it and let's face it, no one cares for animals as much as you do. You'll be an amazing vet."
"Oh, Ryder!" said Katie "I was so worried you would hate me for wanting to go."
"Katie," said Ryder "there is nothing that you could do to make me hate you. I'm so proud of you and so happy for you."
"Ryder, I'm going to cook a special dinner for you" said Katie "Tomorrow after Zuma's Surf competition."
"Sounds great," said Ryder "I can't wait."
"I've got to go look at the paperwork" said Katie, "and make sure I have everything ready to turn in next week."
Katie stood and kissed Ryder then bounced out of the Lookout obviously very happy.
Ryder just sat there staring out the window of the Lookout.
Zuma came in shortly after Katie left. He noticed Ryder and stopped.
"Ryder?" said Zuma "are you ok. You look like I did when Sunny left to go back to college."
Ryder broke down and put face in his hands.
"Whoa, whoa!" said Zuma "I hit a nerve obviously. What's going on?"
Through broken sobs Ryder explained that Katie had been accepted to Vet school.
"I'm happy for her," said Ryder "I really am, but I am going to miss her so much."
"Ryder," said Zuma "It took so long for you two to get together. You have built a relationship that could survive anything. Trust me I understand. You know Chase can handle the team while you go visit her. You said she told you she'd come home on weekends. We're all here for you. Maybe you can look into classes, you know you'd do great if you went to college."
"Thanks Zuma," said Ryder "Maybe you went through what you did so you could help me right now."
"No matter what," said Zuma "we're here for you."
*** At Jake's Mountain with Rocky and Yeshe ***
Rocky parked his truck and walked around to help Yeshe out. He grabbed the basket and they began walking toward a clearing that Rocky had found. It had a beautiful view of the Adventure Bay. He laid out the blanket and began setting the food out. Yeshe just sat and watched. The amount of love and care he took to place everything just perfect before walking over and helping her to the spot he wanted her took her breath away.
"Rocky," said Yeshe "I know we need to talk about what happened this morning. You haven't mentioned it yet. I know I hurt your feelings and confused you."
"Yeshe," said Rocky "I think I understand somewhat. We do need to talk, but I am passed this morning and it no longer matters. What does matter is you're here as am I, there is nothing we can not face together."
"I'm sure someone has explained some things that you may or may not have known," said Yeshe "yes, I am in heat. Yes, I wasn't sure what was going on with me this morning. But nothing you did or said triggered me. I was on the verge of losing control and it scared me at first."
"I understand," said Rocky "I'm happy you felt comfortable enough to go to Skye. Yeshe I know you want to start a family. I guess the question is are you ready now?"
"Yes, Rocky" said Yeshe "I really do want to have pups with you. But I will never pressure you into pups before you're ready. I love making love to you and yes, when I'm in heat both of us apparently can get overwhelmed easily. But I'll admit this morning you looked so adorable that I almost lost it. But Rocky I need to know are you ready?"
"Yeshe," said Rocky "I feared this day for a while."
"D-do you not want a family?" asked Yeshe.
"No, no I do," said Rocky "I was afraid that I'm not good enough for you. I was afraid that you were disappointed when you thought of having pups with me. That's what I was thinking about this morning when you looked at me and then ran out."
"Rocky," said Yeshe "how could you ever think you are good enough. I love you, you're perfect"
"I'm a mixed breed," said Rocky "a mutt, you're a pure blood. I, uh I…"
Yeshe grabbed Rocky by the neck and pinned him to the blanket growling. "Don't you ever call yourself a mutt again. I love you Rocky, not your bloodline. I love you for you and because you're you. I want to have pups with you because you're one of the most caring pups I know and you'll make an amazing father."
Being pinned Rocky became obviously aroused. Yeshe noticed and sat back giggling at Rocky. He rolled over looking at himself then back at her.
"I can't help it," said Rocky "every time you've pinned me down it turns me on more and more. Yeshe, I do want to have a family with you and if you're ready, then so am I. So, uh do you want to eat first or …"
Yeshe jumped back on top of Rocky pinning him again this time on his back and growled playfully saying, "I think both, now and after we have lunch."
*** Back at Jake's Lodge ***
"Hey Jake," said Everest, walking into the cabin.
"Hey girl," said Jake "decided to come visit me today?"
"I'm sorry," said Everest "I have been spending a lot of time at the Lookout. I can try to come back here more often."
"Woah Everest," said Jake "I was totally kidding. I had company to keep me company. Sam came in last night and decided to sleep in. Did Marshall come with you?"
"Yes, we are going to go on a hike," said Everest.
"Oh," said Jake "did you want us to come with you?"
"Uh, well," said Everest, blushing a little.
"Oh, I get it," laughed Jake, "you plan on getting lost in the woods."
"Uh, yeah," said Everest, blushing even more.
Marshall walked in and noticed Everest's blush and then Jake looked up smiling at Marshall.
"Dude," said Jake "you gonna make me a grandpa anytime soon?"
"Uh, oh!" Stuttered Marshall, "I think I left something in the truck." Marshall turned and ran back outside.
"I love doing that to him," laughed Jake.
"You're terrible," laughed Everest "we'll be back before dark. We'll probably stay here tonight."
"Rubble said y'all's cabin will be done soon," said Jake.
Everest went out to find Marshall who was hiding under his fire truck.
"Come on Marshall," said Everest, "let's go get lost."
Everest turned and started down a trail. "Hey," said Marshall "wait for me!"
A little while later Everest and Marshall had found a spot to stop for lunch. Suddenly a deep howl began to echo across the mountain.
"That's weird," said Everest, "it's too early for wolves to be passing through."
The howl continued for a few more minutes and finally began fading.
"Wait, I think I know that voice," said Everest. She pressed her pup tag "Jake? Is anyone else out on the trails today?"
"Oh," said Jake "I totally forgot. Rocky and Yeshe are out getting lost also. Is something wrong."
"No, just wondering," laughed Everest. "Yep, I thought I recognized the voice."
"What is it?" asked Marshall, obviously shaken by the loud howl.
"Apparently Rocky and Yeshe had the same idea," laughed Everest. "Come on we'll head this way so we can go do some howling of our own."
*** down at the beach ***
Zuma was closing up the surf shop and his team was beginning to show up for a final practice before the tournament in the morning.
"Ok, guys," said Zuma "let's get out there and get some good practice in. Then in about an hour we'll clean up everything and get our boards waxed for tomorrow."
"Let's Go Team Zuma!" Shouted everyone before running into the surf and swimming out. Zuma sat on the beach watching everyone and taking some notes. A beautiful blonde lab snuck up behind him and kissed him on his ear. He quickly spun around grabbing her and pulling her into a kiss then noticed Mr. Lariat standing not too far away.
Zuma jumped up and coughed, "Dad, you made it."
"Zuma," laughed Sunny, "Dad's here."
"Gee thanks," laughed Zuma.
"Teams' looking good Zuma," said Floyd "I expect we'll see some medals tomorrow."
"I hope we can make a good showing," agreed Zuma. "Are you going to come to the lookout for dinner?"
"I don't want to put anyone out," said Floyd.
"No way," said Zuma "you're welcome anytime. I'll call Ryder and let him know so he can get ready."
Zuma called Ryder to let me know to expect extra pups for dinner. Ryder called and invited Katie, Jake and Sam to come as well. Then he decided to call Mayor Goodway and Mr. Porter. He felt it funny to invite Mr. Porter for dinner, but explained that he was cooking everything himself and thought it would be nice for someone else to cook for Mr. Porter.
*** Later at the Lookout ***
Ryder had out done himself for dinner. He made everything himself from scratch. Spaghetti and meatballs, he even made the sauce, breadsticks and salad. He had the table waiting as everyone trickled in.
Tables had been set up and even table cloths and real napkins. Candles were lit and everything looked amazing.
"Uh wow Ryder," said Chase walking in "Are you about to tell us you're leaving?"
"No Chase," laughed Ryder "I have an announcement but it's not that. I believe there might be several announcements tonight we'll just have to wait and see."
Katie walked in and Ryder met her at the door. "My lady," said Ryder offering his arm. He led her to a spot at the main table beside his seat. He pulled out her chair and scooted her back in once she had sat down.
Zuma, Sunny, and Mr. Lariat came in next and found their spots. Then Skye walked in looking for Chase and was met at the door and led to their seats. Mayor Goodway and Mr. Porter arrived and found their seats. Marshall and Everest followed by Jake and Samantha walked in and stood amazed at how dazzling everything appeared, they made their way to their seats. Rubble and Obi came in and quickly found that at their seats were already breadsticks. Finally Rocky and Yeshe followed by Toby walked in, Yeshe's breath caught as she entered.
"Oh Rocky," said Yeshe "This looks better and smells better than anything I could have imagined. What's going on?"
"Ryder said he wanted everyone cleaned up and ready for dinner," said Rocky "I hope it's not that he's leaving."
Once everyone was seated Ryder stood and tapped his glass signaling everyone to stop and listen.
"Ladies, gentlemen, and pups we have been together for a very long time," stated Ryder "And before you think any further, No I'm not leaving. But in that time we have all grown and many of you have selected mates. Changes have been made and many more are coming. I do have an announcement I'd like to make later, but I believe there are several others that would like to as well. Katie, would you like to go first?"
"Thank you Ryder," said Katie standing "As most of you know, I have taken care of the pets and sometimes people of Adventure Bay for many years now. I have always thought about becoming more than just a pet parlor owner. Well, I have been accepted to Veterinary school and I am considering accepting. I know it would take me away, but I think Marshall would be able to handle most emergencies and I would return on weekends to take care of Parlor customers as well as see all of you." Katie turned to Ryder and squeezed his hand. "I haven't fully decided but I am excited to see what the future might hold."
Everyone clapped but they additionally looked to Ryder to see how he was taking it. Ryder just smiled and waited.
Next Rubble and Obi stood and announced that they were officially a dating couple now. Everyone cheered and congratulated the new couple assuring them that everyone would be there for them if needed.
Rocky stood and Yeshe slowly stood blushing before Rocky could even start. "I just wanted to announce that after a long discussion, Yeshe and I have decided that we are ready to start trying for a family. I really hope to put the new nursery Rubble's building to use soon."
The cheers from everyone were almost deafening. Everest laughed really loud, Rocky turned toward her and she smiled and mouthed 'I'll tell you two later."
Finally, Zuma and Sunny stood. "As everyone might remember I didn't take it really well when Sunny left last time." Zuma waited for everyone to stop laughing. "Sunny has decided that although it would be difficult for both of us, she really enjoys accounting and bookkeeping. As such she was going to go back to school, but Mr. Lariat, sorry Dad had a better suggestion. I'll let him explain it."
"Zuma I'm going to break you of calling me Mr. Lariat." laughed Floyd. "You make me feel old. Anyway, I love this little town, and as such I hate to see that the locals have to leave to get a higher education. I pulled a few strings and this fall an extension campus for Adventure City University will be opening in Adventure Bay, that is with your approval Mayor Goodway. And Katie, I had heard about your acceptance. I already contacted the Veterinary Office and they would be happy to add their curriculum to the campus as well as the Marine Biology department. It will be a great institution of learning for many years to come."
Everyone cheered and turned to see that Ryder was kissing Katie. Ryder stood and brought Katie to her feet then he knelt in front of her and all those present and pulled a ring out of his pocket.
"Katie we have known each other most of our lives," said Ryder "I have loved you since the day we first met, although I spent almost 10 of those years afraid to tell you. Katie, not necessarily now but someday soon would you agree to be my wife and spend the rest of our days together."
Tears were streaming down her face and all she could do was nod. Ryder placed the engagement ring on her finger and stood to kiss her. Needless to say no dry eyes were in the house and everyone cheered.
An electric hybrid SUV pulled up to the doors of the Lookout. Two young men stepped out and rang the bell startling everyone inside. Ryder walked over to the wall monitor and pulled up the camera.
"Hello, Ryder here" said Ryder "Can I help you?"
"Yes we're actually looking for you Ryder," said the taller of the two men. "I'm Todd and this is Steven. We're student / Teacher Assistants at Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Our team was alerted that you took the entrance test for membership into MENSA. Anyway, we wanted to meet you and offer you the opportunity to take the final entrance exam."
"I honestly thought I was taking a simple IQ test," laughed Ryder. "I actually have company over right now. Is there a chance we could do this in the morning?"
"Uh, yeah sure," said Todd, "we need to check into our motel anyway. We'll stop by in the morning."
That evening Todd and Steven checked around town to ask people what Ryder was really like, was he really as smart as it appeared. Needless to say the town thinks very highly of Ryder and the Paw Patrol. The funny thing about the conversations with the people of Adventure Bay, the name Rocky kept coming up. Ryder was by far the smartest person many people said they knew, but Rocky was the most intelligent pup that ever walked on 4 paws. They would have to check into this wonder pup as well.
*** Back at the Lookout ***
"So what was that about?" asked Chase as Ryder turned off the monitor.
"I don't know," said Ryder "They said they were from MIT. They said they were here about an IQ test I took online. I guess I'll find out in the morning."
"Ryder they said they were here about a MENSA application," said Rocky "That's incredible. You would definitely qualify, you're a genius if anyone is."
"What's MENSA?" asked Marshall
"MENSA is an international organization for Genius' " said Rocky "They require you to take a test and score in the 98th percentile. Ryder is the smartest person in the world."
"Well you're the smartest pup in the world," said Zuma "Why aren't they here for you?"
"I don't know if they have any canine members," said Rocky "Besides, I'm not that smart. Not like Ryder."
"What are you talking about?" said Zuma "You're incredible. You are my best friend and you are the smartest pup in the world. I love you, I just wish you could see the Rocky I see."
"And the Rocky I see," said Yeshe.
The other pups and people all agreed that Rocky should see himself as everyone else does.
Rocky had tears in his eyes as he looked at everyone. "You guys are all the best friends a pup could ever have," said Rocky.
Everyone was talking among each other. Rocky and Yeshe were talking about what they would do tomorrow when Everest walked up.
"Hey guys," said Everest
"So what were you going to tell me later?" said Rocky "It's later."
Everest turned to look at both Rocky and Yeshe, "Well Marshall and I decided to go for a little picnic on the mountain earlier."
Yeshe took a deep breath and Rocky was holding his.
"So great howl Yeshe," laughed Everest. "That must have been something special to get that out of you."
Yeshe composed herself, "Actually it was," said Yeshe "Someone seemed to press all the right buttons and if I'm not already pregnant, I will be before this weekend." With that Yeshe grabbed Rocky's collar and drug him to the elevator before pressing the down button.
Everest stood there for a moment then started laughing, "I knew I loved that girl."