The pups had circled the campfire in their sleeping bags. Marshall next to Everest, then Chase next to Skye, then Rubble next to Obi, and Zuma next to Sunny, and finally Rocky next to Yeshe.
The morning was dawning and Rocky woke, slowly opening his eyes, they focused on Yeshe. Her fur was amazing, he watched her chest rise and fall with each breath, her breath caught and she slowly opened her eyes, as she focused on Rocky, a smile erupted on her face as it did on Rocky's.
"Good morning, my beautiful mountain flower" said Rocky
"Good morning, my favorite scenic view" said Yeshe
"That's it," growned Zuma "I'm going to puke…"
"Stop it," laughed Sunny, swatting Zuma "I think they're cute"
The other pups began rising and rolling up sleeping bags.
"So what should we do today guys?" asked Marshall
"How about the beach?" said Zuma looking over at Sunny
"It's always the beach with you isn't it Zuma" said Marshall
"Actually the beach sounds fun," said Yeshe
"I agree, we should all go to the beach," said Skye and Everest together. They both looked at each other and laughed.
"I guess it's decided we're going to the beach" said Marshall
"I'll swing by the Lookout and pick up supplies" said Chase
"Uh, am I missing something?" asked Marshall
"Yes, honey" said Everest "Come here."
Marshall walked over to Everest and she whispered in his ear, "Sunny has to go back tomorrow, We were going to try and arrange something but you created the perfect opportunity."
"So this was somehow Zuma's idea" asked Marshall
Everest raised an eyebrow at Marshall, "Of course not. We had begun suggesting it. So when you said something he popped right in. You boys are sooo easily lead" she nipped the end of Marshall's nose and walked away.
Everyone gathered their things and headed back to town. Jake, Toby, and Ryder stayed behind to work on some plans for the retreat.
"You might not believe this," said Ryder "But Rubble's construction company could probably build this for you fairly quickly."
"Dude, your right" said Jake "great idea Ryder"
"Rubble, the little English Bulldog?" said Toby "I know you said he was a construction pup, I didn't know you meant literally."
"Rubble is the youngest," agreed Ryder "But he is very good at construction and has started his own business when he is not running missions for the Paw Patrol. He sometimes uses Rocky to design things and then he and his crew can build just about anything. Rubble has never built anything this big yet. I think he would take it as a challenge and it would be great advertisement for him."
"I've used him from time to time" said Jake "He's really good."
"Well that makes it easy" said Toby "I'll ask him later. Where did they all go?"
"Oh, I'm sorry" said Ryder "I should have asked you. I told the pups they could go to the beach. Sunny and the volleyball team are leaving tomorrow and the girls worked out a beach party of some sort."
"Your pups are very resourceful," said Toby "I am amazed at their abilities to organize and perform some of the tasks they do."
"I'd say good leadership might have something to do with it," said Jake
"Maybe a little, but their all such good pups" said Ryder "I just hope they don't all start moving away. I've been with them so long now, it's hard to imagine training new pups, but I guess I will have to someday."
"You really think they will move" asked Toby
"I don't know" said Ryder "With Zuma meeting Sunny. Who knows if he won't follow her somewhere. I could imagine Chase working for a big department somewhere and Skye would follow him without hesitation. Marshall I think would consider a big city department, but I don't think anything would cause Everest to leave Jake, so He is probably safe. Rubble has started his company here so I think he'll be here a while. I'm not going anywhere unless Katie leaves."
"I think your pups will surprise you Ryder" said Jake "I don't think any of them are willing to leave you. You have been too good to them."
"I know it's selfish, but I hope you're right" said Ryder
The pups arrived at the beach and began setting up shelters and getting the snacks out.
A large bus pulled into the parking area on the side of the bus was "Adventure City University." The girls and pups began to unload and laughing and tossing a volleyball back and forth among themselves walked over to where the pups had set up everything. Two of the girls carried over a large ice chest full of drinks. Another brought out a rolling speaker box to play music for everyone. Several of the girls broke off toward the volleyball pits and began playing. Sunny and Roxie got off the bus and seemed to be arguing about something. Zuma hesitantly walked toward them.
"Ladies?" said Zuma "Is everything alright?"
"You just better take good care of her or I'll be back for you," said Roxie.
"What do you mean?" asked Zuma, a little confused. "I've never treated her badly and I never will. What brought this on?"
"Figures, you haven't told him yet?" said Roxie and she turned and walked over to the volleyball pit where the other girls were playing.
"Ignore her," said Sunny, nipping the tip of Zuma's nose.
"What was that about?" said Zuma "Have I been rude to you? Or hurt your feelings? I thought Roxie liked me."
"Don't worry about her," laughed Sunny. "She gets like this when she doesn't get her way. I'm thirsty, let's grab a drink."
"O-ok," said Zuma, following Sunny over to the ice chests.
Chase was setting up the BBQ pit for hotdogs and Marshall was checking the area to make sure it was safe to light the pit. Once satisfied Marshall lit the fire and began watching to make sure all the charcoal caught evenly. As soon as it was hot enough Marshall and Chase began cooking hotdogs for everyone.
Rocky, Rubble, Yeshe and Obi were sitting and laughing about a story Rubble was telling.
Skye and Everest were sitting on a blanket talking.
Sunny reached in and took out a bottle of water and handed it to Zuma, then grabbed herself one. She took a long drink and looked at Zuma.
"Zuma, the coach decided we need to go back tonight" said Sunny "I'm sorry I really wanted to stay with you one more night. But it will be alright when I get things squared away."
"What did Roxie mean, you haven't told him yet?" asked Zuma "Seriously, did I do something. I couldn't stand it if you were upset with me and just not telling me. I really hate that you have to leave early."
"I told you don't worry about her," said Sunny "I love her, but she does not make decisions for me. And no you have done nothing wrong. In fact you have done everything perfect. I just have to go back to the campus. I'll call you in a couple days. Trust me you'll see me again soon, I promise."
"Ok, if you're sure" said Zuma "I hope I didn't do or say something to Roxie that has her upset with me. Should I go apologize?"
"It's not you," said Sunny "It's something between us. Trust me, she gets like this. She'll be fine and everything will work out perfectly. Enough gloom and doom, let's have fun before I have to leave."
With that the two ran over to the volleyball game and watched for a while. Some of the girls decided to go swimming. Skye and Everest joined them since Marshall and Chase were cooking. Everest knew that Marshall would never leave the BBQ pit while it was hot and Skye knew Chase wouldn't leave Marshall alone. Rubble and Obi decided to go join them.
"W-would you like to go swimming?" asked Rocky "I'll go if you want me to. I don't mind."
"Really, everyone told me you hate water," said Yeshe "I don't want you to do something just for me."
"I don't hate water," laughed Rocky "I hate wet dog smell, especially when it's me. But I'll do anything for you, Yeshe. I'm even willing to go swimming. Would you, I mean like to go swimming?"
"That's very sweet Rocky" said Yeshe, kissing him gently "But I don't think so. I'm just enjoying being with you and watching the water. I can't believe it, we are going to stay and live here. I'm so happy. First I met you, then I found that you are such an amazing pup, then to make it better we don't have to leave, ever."
"I was wondering," said Rocky "Just because Toby is staying. Can the monastery make you come back?"
"What? No," said Yeshe "I'm sorry sweetie, have you been worrying about that. Technically I am still a temple mastiff, but I wasn't loaned to Toby, I was presented to him as a guardian and companion. He is my master and I would be obligated to go where he goes. As far as I'm concerned, where he is I go."
"Wow, I know it's silly but I was really hoping you would say that," sighed Rocky
"Besides," said Yeshe "You're mine, I'm not letting you go anytime soon."
Rocky blushed, Yeshe leaned over and kissed him. Rocky felt like he was melting into the sand. He kissed back equally hard. Their kiss became more and more passionate.
Some of the college girls saw the two and cheered which caused everyone else to turn and look. As Yeshe leaned back they heard the noise and realized everyone was watching. They both blushed so hard, that if it had been dark they would have glowed.
The party continued for quite a while. Finally as the day drew long the coach whistled "Time to Go Ladies, say your goodbyes! You got ten minutes!"
Sunny turned to Zuma who looked like he was beginning to choke up. "Oh Zuma," said Sunny "I don't want to leave. I knew it was coming but I hate leaving you."
"I-it's ok," said Zuma "I-i will call you and if I can, I'll come see you"
"Zuma, trust me" said Sunny "It will work out. I'll call you in a couple days. I'll be back faster than you think. I just have to go tie up some loose ends."
"I'll miss you Sunny" said Zuma, tearing up now "You have changed my life. I would follow you anywhere. I'll move to Adventure City if I have to. I want you to enjoy college, but just know I'll be waiting for you."
Sunny kissed Zuma and wiped his eyes, "Oh, Zuma you are making it really hard to leave. I promise though you'll be surprised. I'll call you soon." She kissed him once more and turned to get on the bus.
Zuma just stood there frozen, he watched as the other girls loaded everything and got on the bus. The engine started up and it pulled away.
Zuma just stood there, finally Rocky walked over to him. "Hey, it will be ok" said Rocky "You'll see her soon. I'd be shocked if she didn't drop in to visit." Rocky turned Zuma around, Zuma had tears streaming down his face. Rocky hugged him tight and began to tear up himself. He hated seeing his friend hurt. For the first time in his life Rocky understood how hard it would be to watch the one you cared about drive away.
Yeshe walked over to the two, "Rocky, you take him home and put him to bed. We'll take care of all this and I'll call you later."
Rocky looked up, tears in his eyes for his friend, "T-thank you Yeshe. I-i couldn't imagine watching you drive away." Yeshe kissed Rocky and then turned and kissed Zuma on the cheek. Zuma choked up a little and Rocky led him over to his truck. Rocky took Zuma back to the Lookout and helped him shower then led him to a pup pad in the TV Room. Zuma would have to go get his hovercraft from the beach tomorrow.
Ryder walked in and looked quizzically at Rocky. Rocky held up a paw to his lips and then pointed to another room.
"I'll be right back, Zuma," said Rocky "Do you need anything?"
Zuma just shook his head staring at nothing.
"What happened?" asked Ryder "did he and Sunny have a fight?"
"No, their coach decided they needed to go back tonight," said Rocky. "He watched her ride away in the bus and then he just shut down. I-i don't know what I'd do either. Is that feeling normal?"
"It is," Ryder said "But for you two. It's a little different."
"What do you mean?" said Rocky, tilting his head and looking particularly cute.
"Ha!" laughed Ryder
"What? Ryder" said Rocky "I'm not understanding."
"Sorry pup" Ryder laughed again, "If you and Yeshe ever get into an argument, Hold your head just like that and I think she'd forgive you for anything. But what I was saying is, it's different for you two. Let's face it, Zuma has never been serious about any one girl before. Sunny for some reason has filled a hole he didn't know he had and once filled he can't imagine living without her here. I really hope it works out for those two. I think they are perfect for each other. You on the other hand, while you don't have a lot of experience with girls, you also have never really had anyone that you truly cared for."
"I care for you and the pups very much" protested Rocky
"Different kind of care" said Ryder "Yes you love us like family, and we are a family here. But now you're getting a taste of affection for another pup. I think you would be largely inconsolable, if Yeshe had to leave. I actually went to Toby in order to prepare in the event he was going to announce that he was going back to the monastery. I was afraid of how you would react."
"Really," said Rocky "You asked him about that? What did he tell you?"
"Yes, pup" said Ryder "I care that much about all of you. He told me that I would have to wait like everyone else, but he assured me that I would not need to put you into counseling. Pup, I know it's really early in you and Yeshe's relationship, but I have a really good feeling about you two and Zuma and Sunny as well."
"Thanks Ryder," said Rocky "It helps to know you are behind us. I hope that Toby is."
"Trust me," said Ryder "he very much so believes that you two were destined to be together, He believes that his coming here was indeed for him to follow and fulfill the retreat plan. Ultimately though, he thinks they came for Yeshe to meet you. Now don't think that makes it a done deal, you still have to do your part and treat her right. But I think you're going to do great."
"WOW, I had no idea," said Rocky "I need to get back to Zuma in case he needs me."
"Ok Rocky," said Ryder "You're a great friend. He's lucky to have you. It will probably be tough for him over the next few days. Let me know if I can help."
Rocky walked back into the TV Room. Zuma hadn't moved. Rocky walked back over to where Zuma laid.
"Hey," said Rocky softly, "Do you need to use the tree?" Zuma just shook his head. "Need something to drink" again Zuma shook his head. "Ok buddy," Rocky continued "I'm right here, if you need anything just let me know."
Rocky sat watching Zuma. After about an hour the other pups began returning to the Lookout. Skye and Everest quietly entered and approached Rocky.
"How's he doing Rocky?" asked Skye
Rocky shook his head, "Not good, he won't speak. He won't go outside or even drink water."
"It's going to take time," said Everest. "We talked Obi into getting Rubble to follow her home. He's going to stay with her for a few days. The boys are going to handle anything that comes in for a few days. We'll check in on you two, but you know you can call either of us anytime. We'll get him through this. She'll be back before we know it."
"Yeah, I know" said Rocky "And I think he does too. It's just, I don't think he's ever felt about anyone this way. Getting used to her being around and then having to give her up like that, it hit him hard. I won't leave him, he wouldn't leave me."
"No one expects you to" said Skye "It was the boys' idea to cover calls. Everyone knows you two are tight. Yeshe came to say good night. She didn't want to come in because it might upset Zuma. She's been here a short time and even she knows how close you both are. Go on, I'll watch over him until you get back."
Rocky looked over at Zuma who just appeared to be staring at the wall, "I don't know if I can."
"Rocky," said Everest "You aren't going far. If he calls for you, I'll come let you know. But go tell Yeshe good night. Zuma wouldn't want you to neglect her."
Rocky just nodded and turned to walk to the elevator. He turned back to Zuma and a tear rolled down his cheek. He walked into the elevator and pressed the down button.
Yeshe was waiting just outside the door. She turned as the doors opened and Rocky stepped out.
"Oh Rocky," whimpered Yeshe "The hurt look on Zuma's face as the bus pulled away, I don't think I will ever forget it. I sure hope he gets better soon."
Rocky wiped the tears from his eyes, "I don't think I've ever seen him this upset. I really hope she was being honest about calling. I really hope she didn't come for a fling and only to leave and move on to the next guy."
"I really get the impression that she was quite serious," said Yeshe "in fact I don't think it will be long at all before she's back."
"But she's got the volleyball team and college classes" said Rocky "She'll be busy and I just hope that Zuma doesn't fall by the wayside."
"Rocky," said Yeshe "I can't explain why, but I really get the feeling that she made a decision while here that might change things."
"What do you mean?" asked Rocky
"Just a weird tension at the beach party," said Yeshe "something major happened between Sunny and the team. I don't know, but I just got a weird feeling that something was going on."
"Zuma said she hated college," said Rocky "and that she was only going because of her parents. You don't think she would quit for Zuma do you? Zuma doesn't need angry parents hunting him."
"I don't know Rocky" said Yeshe "maybe that's it. I guess only time will tell. Either way you need to get back to him. I'll talk to you tomorrow. Good night"
Yeshe was turning to walk away, "Yeshe?" said Rocky. When she turned back to see Rocky she was met with his lips. They both pressed into the kiss and held it. Rocky opened his eyes and smiled.
"Good Night, my love" said Rocky "Are you going all the way back to Jake's Mountain?"
"No, I'm just going to the cabin here in town," said Yeshe "Ryder brought Toby back and we are going to pack everything up in the morning then move it to the cabin Jake gave us. Don't worry, Skye and Everest said they would help. You take care of Zuma. Us girls can handle it."
"Oh great," laughed Rocky "It's become 'US girls' already. I don't stand a chance do I?"
"Nope," laughed Yeshe "You're mine to play with as I wish." With that she turned and trotted off toward the cabin.
Rocky stood watching her saunter away. 'She really does have an amazing rear end' thought Rocky. "Boy, wouldn't Zuma be proud." He laughed, shaking his head and headed back up to Zuma.
During the night Rocky heard Zuma whimpering and woke to walk over and check on him.
"Zuma?" said Rocky "Zuma, is something wrong. Do you need something?"
Zuma turned to Rocky, "Do you think I've lost her?" whimpered Zuma "Did I just watch her ride away for the last time. Oh Rocky, what am I going to do? I don't think I can make it without her. I've never met anyone like her."
Rocky laid down beside him on the pad, "Zuma, I don't believe for a second that you have lost her. I think she would have stayed here in a moment if you had asked her to. It can't be that long that she'll be in school. You two will see each other when you can go there or she can come here. Like you said, it's not that far to Adventure City."
"Oh Rocky, I've made a complete fool of myself in front of everyone" whimpered Zuma "I turned into a big drooling idiot and everyone has seen what a fake I've been."
"The only ones that saw you" said Rocky "were your friends. None of us think you did anything any of us wouldn't have done. It brakes my heart to watch you suffering. I know it will make you feel better to talk to her in a few days. She promised she'd call, and she will. You rest, I'm here and everything else is taken care of. Now rest, I'll see you in the morning. Do you need anything first?"
"I really have to pee bad," said Zuma
"Come on," Rocky laughed, helping Zuma up "I can't do that for you."
The two went down the elevator and out to the tree.
The next morning Rocky woke and found Zuma standing on the balcony overlooking Adventure Bay. Zuma stared toward the bay. As Rocky walked up to him never looked back but spoke as if he knew Rocky was there somehow.
"I know it's silly Rocky" said Zuma "But everything looks different. I don't know...I can't seem to think straight. All I can think about is watching that bus pull away and feeling as if something was ripped out of me."
"Zuma, I can only now begin to understand how you feel," said Rocky "When Toby began his announcement the other night, I thought I was going to get sick. If he had said they were returning to Tibet, I don't know. I think it would have been you taking care of me or I don't know."
"Rocky, we have always been here for each other," said Zuma "We joke and act like we're best friends. We are so much more than that. I-i Love You Rocky, I can't imagine we could be closer if we were blood kin. You are and always will be my brother. I wouldn't have survived last night without you."
That was it, tears were flowing on both sides. Rocky hugged Zuma tightly and then Zuma pulled away.
"Di-did you abandon Yeshe to come take care of me?" asked Zuma "I-I'm sorry, I should have handled this better. If you need to go to her, I understand. At the least I need to apologize to her."
"Zuma, Yeshe was the first one to suggest I bring you home," said Rocky "She stopped by last night to say good night. She understands how close we are. She and the girls are going to help Toby pack up the cabin and move everything to Jake's Mountain. Jake gave them a cabin to live in."
"I feel so stupid," said Zuma "I shouldn't be acting this way. I'm neglecting the team, I've let everyone down."
"I believe we had this conversation in reverse the other day," laughed Rocky "I believe you said something like, Stop that crap right now! Stop putting yourself down. You are acting exactly like any of us would. You really like Sunny and she has had to leave because of obligations. It hurts and you have to find a balance between work, school and your relationship, worrying about her, and surviving until you two are together again. She didn't move to the moon, but it probably feels that she's that far away. She'll call soon, it won't be the same, but you two will manage somehow. No matter what, I'll be here for you and so is everyone else."
"Rocky, you are such an awesome friend" said Zuma "No strike that, you such an awesome brother. I hope I can be there for you like you have been for me. Just hopefully not for the same reason."
"What are you talking about," said Rocky "you have been. It's been you helping me through how to speak and act around Yeshe. I know squat about girls, you have a way with them. You can understand what makes them happy. You are the guy everyone wants to be around girls."
"Well I was," laughed Zuma "I guess I won't play the playboy surfer pup anymore."
"Well that is probably true," laughed Rocky "But regardless, you'll get through this. Do you want to rest some more or would you finally like to eat something?"
"I don't feel like eating anything yet" said Zuma "But you shouldn't starve because of me."
"Seriously Zuma," said Rocky "I was a stray, I've been hungry before. I'm fine, if you'd like to rest, I'll be here."
Marshall stuck his head in the room, "You guys need anything?"
"I'm ok," said Rocky "You sure you don't want anything Zuma?"
"I'm sure," said Zuma "I guess I do need to go get my Hovercraft this morning."
"Nope, it's back here already," said Marshall "Yeshe drove it back."
"Yeshe, how'd she do that?" said Rocky "She's never driven anything before."
"She said she wanted to help," said Marshall "She said she'd like to try to learn because it looked fun. Skye rode with her and helped her get back here. She's a natural, at least at driving."
"Wow," said Zuma "I should start a list of all the pups and people I owe for taking care of me. I'm being stupid about this."
"Are you kidding?" said Marshall "I feel that way everytime Everest goes back to Jake's Mountain and it's only a short drive to go see her. You're acting like any of us would. Don't sweat it, Chase and I have the calls covered and oh crap I forgot. I told Yeshe that since she seemed comfortable with driving, that she could use your truck Rocky. That is to pull the trailer with her and Toby's stuff."
"Uh, yeah sure," said Rocky "If she's comfortable with it, that's fine."
"You should probably go help her," said Zuma "I'll be fine."
"Nope," said Marshall "Chase and I offered and Skye told us to go away, they had it covered and didn't need us stinky boys in the way of working women. I'm afraid you're stuck, Rocky. I think Skye and Everest are attached and they'd get rid of you in order to keep Yeshe given the choice."
"I figured," laughed Rocky "Yeshe used the 'Us Girls' statement last night. I knew I was a goner."
"Hey," said Marshall "If either of you need something. Let me or Chase know, you rest up."
"Thanks Marshall" said Zuma "And tell everyone else thank you as well. I'll make it up to everyone." "You know what Rocky," continued Zuma, "I think I will eat a little after all."