Welcome back my friends! This chapter is out pretty fast isn't? I've only had four hours of sleep since last update. But this is worth it, I hope. XD
Now I'm trying something new, I've always wanted to do this. I've got a couple song suggestions for this chapter. This first one is:
Johnny Cash: One Piece at a Time
And the second:
The Eagles: The Last Resort
You don't have to but you can listen to them as you read. They really inspired me while writing maybe they can enhance your experience. If you do decide to listen; One Piece at a Time happens after Johnny Cash is mentioned. And you'll know when The Last Resort starts.
I hope you guys enjoy.
Edited by: InkleCherrySeed
Chapter 9
Present Joy Part 2
Judy could hardly contain the excitement of getting to go to the star viewing with Nick. Yes it sounded like a date but they were going as friends. No more, right?
Nope you know why he asked you. The bunny shook the thought from her head. No use in tormenting herself.
Judy was standing in front of her mirror marveling at the outfit she was wearing. She had asked Fru Fru to pick out something for her. The little shrew apparently already had one for the occasion. It was a long sleeved deep purple blouse and a pair of black jeans. Since it was cold where they were going she had put on a light blue T-shirt under the blouse to help keep her warm.
She turned around and picked up her wallet and phone. Right before she started heading for the door she herd the familiar sound of the 302 engine in Nick's car. She couldn't help the smile that came up on her face. As quick as she could manage (which was really really quick) Judy ran out her door and down the three flights of stairs to the front door.
When she came out the doors she saw the red convertible parked by the curb with Nick holding the door open for her.
"Good evening my lady. May I say you are looking stunning tonight." Nick said in a deep voice. He was failing at not starring at her. The purple of her shirt matched her big beautiful eyes perfectly and the pants she was wearing just helped accent the color.
Judy's ears wilted under the gaze Nick was giving her and her face started to burn from the compliment. "Hey Nick. You're not looking too bad yourself. You look good in black." She loved the way the dark color made his eyes glow. She loved his eyes. How sharp and attentive they were. Though there was a darker side to them too; a mystery that she needed to solve. To understand Nick Wilde.
"Do I now? I thought it would make me seem mysterious." He said as he picked at the shirt.
You wouldn't believe how much it does. "I would say it makes you look more handsome then mysterious." She said with a wink of her eye.
Nick put a paw to his chest. "Look; you're making me blush. Stop it Carrots."
He gestured to the open door. Judy nodded her head and hopped in. Nick walked around the front of the car and jumped in too. "Ready to go?"
Judy had just turned around from buckling her seat belt. "Yes lets go!" She was practically bouncing in place.
Nick pushed in the clutch and turned the key and the engine roared to life. It wasn't a big engine in any way shape or form but it was a pretty loud one, and it got amazing gas mileage. The fox threw it into gear and they were off.
Tonight was going to be a big one for Nick; he had a plan. One that he hoped wouldn't hurt too badly if it went south. At the end of the night Nick was planning on telling Judy how he really felt about her. This could not continue any more, something needed to end. Even if she didn't return his feelings he would still be her friend, but the secrecy would end tonight.
They drove on talking about simple things. They never mentioned the case they were on even though they were going to the place where it was most involved.
"You've had this car for that long?" Judy replied to Nick's earlier comment.
"Yep, got it when I turned sixteen. Never really messed with it that much until about six maybe seven years later. That's when I fixed it up. New paint job, new radio and speakers, I had the CB in it redone. Replaced most of the engine seals. And most recently I did this." He reached forward and pulled a knob out a click and the cab and running lights came on. But what Nick was talking about was the red under glow under the dash by their hind paws.
"How long ago did you do that? And have you done all this stuff by yourself?" Judy asked as she looked at the lights.
"Well when I said recently I meant two years ago. And yes I did do most of the work on this myself. Other that the paint job. I had a friend of Finnick's do that."
"Did this friend happen to do the painting that is on the side of his van too?"
"No it was actually Finnick that did that."
"Really?! You're kidding."
"Nope it's really his work. If you look close you can see where he signed it."
"Huh I would have never guessed. Why doesn't he do that for a living?"
"For a long time he always talked about. But you know how hard something can be to get especially for a fox. Me and him never really had the money to give it a shot. I have heard that he's giving it another one though."
"I wonder what inspired him to do that." She said in a teasing voice.
"Well it couldn't have been me. I'm a cop remember? And hustlers and cops aren't supposed to hang out. It's like cops and robbers it's the natural order of things."
Judy looked at Nick with a look that just screamed 'really?' "Don't give me that. I know you guys go out for drinks every second Saturday of the month."
"What's wrong with that?" Nick wined as if he'd been doing something bad.
"Nothing." She shook her head. "I just think it's sweet that you're helping your friend get back on his feet."
Nick pulled up to a stop light. After the car was stopped he looked up at the roof with a gone. "Oh great, first she thinks I'm cute for being concerned for her. Now she thinks I'm sweet? What's next; handsome? Oh wait she thinks that too."
Judy giggled at Nick's melodramatic complaining. "Oh quit it Nick. There's nothing wrong with being cute, sweet and handsome."
It was Nick's turn to give the 'seriously?' expression. "Says the bunny that doesn't like being called cute."
"Yep! Now where did you learn how to work on this thing?" She gestured around the cab of the car.
"Over the years I've picked up a few things. You know talked to a guy about this. Read a book about that; the usual."
"You mean to tell me that you know how to read. That's wonderful Nick now I won't have to do all the paperwork at work!" She teased.
"Why Carrots you wound me. Of course I can read, I can also write. And I can do this." He lifted his paw in front of his chin; with two slightly bent fingers he rotated his palm counter-clockwise. Then because he was driving he used the same paw to give himself bunny ears. (Translation: Cute Carrots.)
Judy scowled. She balled up her paw and 'wacked' herself in the forehead. Then she made the OK gesture with her fingers and flicked her wrist twice. (Translation: Dumb Fox!)
Nick smiled over at the bunny. "You learn quick Carrots, nice job."
Once again Judy flopped her ears down and started fiddling with them to try to hide her blush. "Thanks Nick."
"No problem, I liked the idea of being able to mess around with people using the signals." He rambled. That may not have been the only deciding factor in his decision. That kiss was pretty compelling.
"Not just for that Nick." She giggled. "For tonight and keeping for me company this past week. It wouldn't have been very enjoyably without you." She spoke softly and sincerely.
She would have made it through the week without the fox but she would have been a mess by the end of it. When she found out what kind of leave they were on it had been a blow. She had thought that unpaid leave was going to be her punishment for goofing off at the search and rescue drill. She was ready to accept that.
The way she was raised she was taught that she had to earn most things. Being on unpaid leave went against what she lived by. It made her feel guilty for not being able to earn the money through honest work. When she thought about it from the chief's point of view it was a great punishment for her.
She also fingered that the chief would expect her to annoy Nick about not being able to work so he couldn't relax. This was exactly what she had been doing. That was why she didn't bother Nick on Thursday; she didn't want to ruin his time.
But he wouldn't have that. There was to be no moping rabbits on his watch. He'd managed to cheer her up and keep her mind off work. It was part of the reason she had the courage to give him that kiss even if it was on the cheek. Just to say thank you.
"You're welcome Fluff. It was my pleasure to keep you from driving everyone around you crazy because you were board."
"I only do that to people I like." Maybe if she started dropping hints Nick might figure out how she felt.
"So you do like me. I knew it."
As soon as it registered to Judy what he had just said she felt a wave of dizziness hit her and her head started to swim. Did he know how she really felt? If he did why didn't he tell her? If he knew; and hadn't told her did that mean he didn't feel the same way? These were some of the many questions she had buzzing around her head.
Nick continued talking without a pause. "I always thought you followed me around because of my foxy tail. But now I know for sure that we're friends and you don't want my tail for its blanket like properties."
Judy was stunned. Even though Nick didn't know it he had just thrown her mind through the mother of all loops. He's just teasing me? He doesn't know how I feel? Of course he can't tell me cause he doesn't know. Why would he think I want his tail for its blanket like properties? I think it would make a good scarf too.
She recovered relatively well considering the circumstances of her confusion. "How do you know that? Maybe I am after your tail. I think it would make a better scarf then a blanket."
"I thought I knew you better than that Carrots." Nick pouted.
They continued tossing remarks back and forth playfully for the whole trip. Judy even managed to act hurt by one of Nick's jabs by getting all teary eyed. Towards the end of the drive the car had fallen silent. It wasn't that there wasn't any more to say, quite the opposite in fact. It was more of a break to think.
Judy was thinking about what she might see in the sky tonight and was getting excited again. Nick on the other paw was trying to plan out just how he would tell Judy at the end of the night. More so he was thinking about the possible reactions she might have.
There were a few different ways he could see it going. One: She understands but doesn't feel the same way but still wants to be friends. Two: At first she acts the same then as time passes she starts becoming more and more distant. Three the most unlikely: She shares his feelings and they start a relationship together.
Nick had just rounded a bend and the observatory was in sight. "Hey Carrots take a look at that." He gestured to the massive building they were approaching.
Judy looked up from where she had been fiddling with her shirt and gasped at what she saw. The whole building was covered in small soft yellow lights. Since it was snowing very softly and it was getting near dark the lights gave a holiday feeling even though it was the middle of the summer time.
She turned and beamed at him. "Oh Nick, they're beautiful. They almost look like stars. Don't you think?"
Nick bent down to get a better look through the windshield. "Yeah, that must be why Edward puts them up. Plus it's inviting to the public."
Once again Judy was pretty much vibrating in her seat. "What do you think we'll see tonight?"
Nick shrugged. "I don't know, maybe some stars a planet or two? You tell me. I'm betting I'll see the inside of an observatory tonight."
Judy rolled her eyes. "Har har, I'm serious Nick."
"Well, it just so happens that I am too. Just behold my serious expression." The fox looked over and wiggled his eyebrows at the bunny.
"I don't think you are physically capable of being serious." She giggled.
Nick pulled into a parking spot and shut the engine off. He turned and gave Judy a sad look and put a paw on his chest. "I am offended that you would think something like that about me."
They clambered out of the convertible and met at the front of it. When they got there Judy grinned. "Did I hurt the poor fox's feelings?" She cooed.
"Maybe, but I know how you can make it better." He whined in a hurt voice.
Judy cocked her hip and put a paw on it as she smiled. "And how do I do that?"
He bowed and held out a paw. "Come with me my dear."
Her smile only grew. "Ooo romantic." She reached out and put her small paw in Nick's much bigger one. He closed his fingers which completely engulfed her paw. It really highlighted just how much of a size difference there was between them. They stood like that for a moment just holding paws and staring into the other's eyes.
Judy gave Nick a smile he swore she saved just for him. With the way she was looking at him her eyes seemed to say something that he thought was impossible. "Lead on foxy."
Nick drew the bunny closer to him. They turned around and began their walk up to the observatory. There weren't many other vehicles around so Judy assumed that meant there wasn't going to be a huge amount of people inside. That would be pleasant; a nice quite evening with Nick.
When they reached the front doors Nick stepped up and held the door open. "After you."
"Thank you mister Wilde." Once they were both inside they were greeted with a pleasant warmth. Enough so that they were able to take their coats off, which they hung on the wall to the right of the door.
Judy looked around. "Well where is everybody?" She asked.
They were standing in the main hallway with the dome to the right and the boors to the basement to the left. Because of this Nick reasoned that everyone was probably going to be in the dome. "Well Carrots I would guess everyone is in the dome, they are here to see the stars after all."
"I think you might be right. Shall we?" This time she held out her paw. Which Nick gently grasped.
As they walked down the hall they both began to realize just how big the building really was. They never really had that much time to pay that much attention to details the last time they were here. It defiantly took them a solid five minutes to get to the dome. They must have been walking pretty fast last time because it didn't feel like they were here that long. That or they must have practically been jogging the whole time. It took Judy a moment and a couple of times looking over her shoulder to realize that the hallway had a slight curve to it. And that she couldn't see the doors to the basement anymore.
Soon enough they reached the threshold to the dome. Both fox and bunny could hear talking and the occasional laugh. Without hesitating they walked through the open doors. As soon as they were in the big room they felt the chill of the outside. Not as bad as actually being outside but still very slightly uncomfortable. They were both glad they were wearing some warmer clothes.
Surrounding the massive telescope was a group of all manners of mammals; from an elephant to a mouse. There was even a platypus wearing a winter coat. Judy had never seen one before. She read about them but had never actually seen one in the flesh. A quick survey told Nick; him and Judy were the second smallest couple there tonight.
Among the crowd was Edward. Nether the fox or bunny could actually see him. But they could hear him talking about the history of the room and its contents. The duo meandered up to the group of people. Since they were on the smaller size it was quite easy to squeeze through to the front. Once they got there they saw Edward standing about five stairs up on the stair case that went up the telescope.
Almost as soon as they were in the front he spotted them. It must have been a skill he had picked up from being an astronomer. The arctic fox smiled and stopped talking. "I knew you two would make it. Hey everybody I would like to introduce Officers Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde. They're the ones that have been working on putting a stop to the people stealing the equipment from the observatory."
Judy nudged the fox and squeezed his paw in a pattern. This was more of the signals they had gone over. Judy had devised this set based on Morse code so if they couldn't motion with their paws but they were still close enough to hold them. (Translation: He had to make it awkward didn't he?)
After a second Nick replied with his own pattern of squeezes. (Translation: I guess. Let's just roll with the punches and see how it goes.)
Edward started walking down the stairs. As soon as he reached the other fox and the bunny he held out a paw, which they both shook in turn. "I'm glad you guys could make it. With all you're doing for me and Chuck I knew you guys would deserve something like this."
"We're just doing our job Mr. Sanders. There's no need to thank us." Nick replied.
Edward waved both his paws "Nonce it's the least we could do. Now I'd better get back to the crowd it's about the right time to get people looking towards the stars."
The fox turned around and walked back up the staircase. "Sorry about that. Had to say thank you. Now where we? Right we were agreeing on what we would be looking at and in what order. So who's next?"
The jaguar couple raised their paws. "Our son has been studding the spot on Jupiter would it be possible to see that tonight?"
"As a matter of fact it will be in sight tonight. And if you would like I could record the footage so your son could see it too."
"Oh that would be wonderful. Thank you so much Mr. Sanders!" The wife said.
"Dose anyone else have anything specific they would like to look at?"
Nick raised his free paw catching Edward's attention. "Are there any interesting planets you'd recommend? If so I'd like to see one of those."
"I've got one that I think would be perfect. It is however on the east side of the dome and everything else so far is on the west side. This isn't a problem but you guys are doing to have to wait until last."
Nick looked down at the bunny at his side. "Is that alright Carrots? Would you like to see Edward's perfect planet?"
She looked up and smiled as she nodded her head. "Sure Nick than sounds nice."
Nick clapped his paws together. "Well then Edward we'll be happy waiting until later."
"Great! If you guys would like there's drinks and snacks in the gym. Everyone is welcome to them. Just go down the hall it's the second door on the left. Chuck could you would raise the telescope 22 degrees and rotate the dome 15 degrees to the right please."
"Sure thing Edward." The lion called from up on top of the cat walk that ran around the dome. Nether the fox or the bunny noticed that he was up there. They turned around and waved. "Hi Chuck!" Judy called happily. He waved back to the duo with a smile.
Nick grabbed Judy's paw and started pulling her towards the door. "Come on Carrots let's go see if there's any coffee in the gym."
"Nick! Slow down, you're going to pull me off my feet."
Nick slowed to a walk immediately. He looked down with an ashamed expression on his face. "Sorry Carrots. I was just excited."
Judy grabbed Nick's paw, which he had let go of hers with, and gave it a squeeze. "It's alright. Just slow down there's plenty of time to enjoy the night, and coffee."
The last part put a smile back on his face. "Alright, thanks Fluff."
She gave his paw another squeeze and they walked out of the dome. As they left the large room they heard the sound of large motors and metal moving. It must have been the dome rotating.
They walked paw in paw until they reached the second set of double doors on the left. They were both propped open and the lights were on inside but they were dimmed significantly. When they crossed the threshold in to the enormous room they were surprised to see it had been set up rather nicely.
There were tables set up along a couple of the walls. Near the door there was a long white plastic table with a couple different punch like drinks and the makings for coffee. There were also true to Edward's word snacks. They were simple packets of nuts and berries for prey and fried crickets and other bugs for predators.
"This is pretty nice. How much do you think it costs to come to this event? And do you think Edward is going to make us pay for it?" As he was talking he was still surveying the room. Suddenly he gasped, which made Judy jump.
"What is it Nick, are you okay?" She asked with a little concern.
"It's nothing I'm fine." He let go of her paw and started walking to the right corner of the room. When Judy started to follow after him she spotted what he had. Sitting in the corner of the room was an old jukebox.
"I haven't seen one of these since I was a kit. I wonder if it still works?" He reached the machine and started fiddling with it. In less than ten seconds he was on his paws and knees squeezing behind it.
At this point Judy had come up and was watching the fox work. She was having immense trouble not watching his tail bob and wag around. She needed to distract herself. "Nick are you sure you should be doing that? You might get in trouble." As soon as she said it she heard a spark of electricity and the jukebox lit up.
"Ha! It still works. All it needed was plugged in and the power cord wiggled around. Now we can listen to music." He crawled out from behind the now vibrantly lit machine and brushed his pants off. He turned around and looked at Judy, who had an odd expression on her face. "What?"
A smile started to appear on her face. "You really are a handy fox aren't you? I thought you were kidding around."
"Of course I'm a handy fox. What makes you think I wasn't? It's because I am a fox isn't it?" He put a paw to his chest. "You know that hurts right? Right here." He patted his chest to emphasize his point.
"Nick, I didn't mean-" He held up a finger silencing her.
"Because you are making my chest hurt I get to pick the first song."
"You, you did that on purpose! You sly fox. I should have seen that coming." She started giggling.
"You know Carrots? After all the time you spend around me I'm surprised you're still so gullible."
She quit laughing. "I'm not gullible." As soon as she had the words out of her mouth she started laughing even harder than before.
"Yeah says the bunny that thought I was actually Finnick's dad." Nick had already turned back around to face the music maker, that didn't stop him from teasing in the slightest. After a moment he was sifting through the song collection trying to figure out what he wanted to listen to.
"This thing has been recently upgraded there's a few Gazelle songs in here. It's still all on CD but there's more than I was expecting."
Judy lit up at the mention of her favorite singer. "Really, can I pick a song? Please." She drew her paws into her chest and was hopping up and down. All the while she was giving Nick the biggest and, dare he say; cutest eyes.
Quickly Nick's resolve to pick the first song was disintegrating. He spun around and faced the jukebox and started scrolling through choices. "A deal's a deal Carrots I get first pick." She was about to protest but the fox held up a finger silencing her. "You ever heard of Johnny Cash?"
She cocked her head to the side making her ears flop that way too. "No who's that?"
Nick lowered his head into his paws and groaned. "My best friend doesn't know who Johnny Cash is. If I would have known there might have been time to save you. There's no other choice I need to educate you on who a real singer is."
Judy had crossed her arms and was lightly glaring at the red fox. Though he could still see her lips slightly curved up in a smile she was trying to hide. "I know a good singer when I hear one. And it's not my fault I don't know who Johnny Cash is. I'm not as old as you."
"I don't care if you think I'm old I know good music when I hear it unlike most young kids nowadays. Now be quite and listen to the song." As soon as he was finished specking the song started:
"Well I left Kenturky back in '49.
An' went to deertroit Workin' on a 'sembly line.
The first year they had me puttin' wheels on cadillacs...
The song was about a man that wanted to have a Cadillac but didn't have the money to buy one. Since he worked on an assembly line he devised a plan to take every part to build one of the cars over a series of years. What the result was one of a kind to say the least.
Judy was leaning against Nick still laughing about the song as he chuckled along with her. They were both seated at a small round card table that was in the corner. After starting the song Nick went to get him and Judy a drink. He was pleasantly surprised to find hot chocolate along with coffee. Which he immediately poured a cup full of each and returned to where Judy had decided they would sit.
Judy sighed happily. "So Slick, is that how you got your car? And how you became such a handy fox?" She elbowed Nick playfully.
"Oh I wish. Actually, the car has been mine since I was eleven. My dad gave it to me." He paused as he took a slightly shaky breath. "I inherited it after he died from heart disease."
Nick didn't really know why he was sharing such a painful memory with the bunny at his side. Maybe it was his subconscious trying to get some last minute practice on how to share guarded memories in before he took the chance and confessed to Judy later.
Judy covered her mouth to try and conceal her gasp, but Nick still saw and heard it. "Oh Nick, I'm so sorry." She laid her paw on his arm, just like she did when they were in the sky tram more than a year ago. To her relief he didn't pull away this time. In fact she could feel his tensed forearm relax under her touch.
He took another deep breath as he prepared to speak some more. But Judy beat him to it. "Nick," she said softly. "You don't have to talk about it if you don't want."
She could tell that he was having trouble with the current topic. And she didn't want him to be upset about it for the rest of the night. Of course she did want to know more. She wanted to know Nick better. He knew most there was to know about her. What she did as a kit, what her family was like. He even knew she never went to her first prom because no one would take her because of what she dreamed to do one day. He knew a lot about her, but she didn't know very much about him.
Nick sighed it never ceased to amaze him the lengths Judy would go to be a good and caring friend. It was a huge part of why he loved her. She always, always put others before herself. That's what made her such a good police officer.
"It's alright Carrots. I've never had anyone else to talk to about this, other than my mom. I just need to get this off my chest then we can enjoy the rest of the night." Nick smiled down at Judy, eyes filled with adoration.
Judy was touched that Nick found such trust in her that he would open up to her. She looked up and saw the smile she was receiving. She focused on his emerald eyes. The way they seemed to sparkle made her heart skip a beat and her cheeks to grow warm. "Okay Nick, I'll listen."
"Thanks, Judy. Well let's see where do I start? Have you ever heard of suit-topia?" Judy shook her head "Yeah that makes since; you weren't even alive then; I was five or six. It's all just a memory now to only the people that care enough to remember. Any way my dad owned the place. He made the best suits in all of Zootopia. I can show you pictures of past mayors that are wearing a suit he made. All the suits Mr. Big wears he made."
He paused as he smiled. Those were good times back then there was no trouble with money and since Nick was so young the world was still pure and good to his naïve eyes. Many times Nick wished it could all just go back to those care free days.
"Even though he was the best tailor in the city he was still a predator and a fox. It cost him so much business and caused so much pain. But he always put on the brave face for me and mom. After the junior ranger scouts incident I woke up. At first I was broken then I just accepted what I was; just a fox. My dad always gave me the strength to go on to keep trying. But stuff just kept beating me down."
Nick took another shaky breath this was the part he didn't want to talk about; didn't want to relive. But he had started this and by god he was going to finish.
Meanwhile Judy could easily tell that Nick was having trouble. She didn't want for him to have to struggle through this like he was. But she held her tough. All she did was give a gentle squeeze to his arm.
"Shortly after I turned eleven my dad had a heart attack when he was at work. An aneurysm that had developed near his heart ruptured. His apprentice drove him to the hospital in his own car. The car that is now parked outside right now." For what seemed like the tenth time the fox took a long breath. He swallowed and then continued. "But he didn't make it." He spoke quietly. "The bleeding was too bad he died after ten minutes."
Judy's eyes were glassy as she held back tears. Even so she managed to form words. "Oh Nick, I'm so sorry. Come here." She scooted to the side of her char and reached up and hugged the fox. Nick hugged back.
They stayed that way for a moment; one they both wished would last just a little longer. When they separated Nick spoke. "He willed the car to me and the shop to my mom. That is why I still have the old thing and why I take such good care of it, it's all I've got left of him."
Judy looked up at Nick with a shy yet sad smile she asked: "Nick what was your dad's name?"
A smile appeared on his face. One that wasn't sad or heart broken. It was one that spoke silently of remembrance and love. "Robbin, Robbin Wilde."
Judy smiled and hugged Nick's midsection again. "Thanks for telling me Nick." She whispered.
"Thank you for listening… and not crying in public." He snickered. He felt good about how the talk had gone. He sure did feel pretty good about just being able to talk and be listened to. Too many times to count Nick didn't ever open up because no one ever wanted to listen to a fox complain.
They stayed still secretly enjoying the closeness and contact with the other. Judy did turn away a little so she could take a sip of her hot chocolate. She found to be the perfect drinking temperature so it wouldn't burn her mouth. Almost as fast as Nick slurps down his first cup of coffee in the mornings; Judy drained the Styrofoam cup her drink was in.
"Wow Carrots I didn't know you liked that stuff so much. If I did I would have gotten you a bigger cup." Even with the previous topic still on his mind slightly Nick was going to stick to his word and have a good night. The best way to do that was to mess with his partner.
Judy put the cup down with a little bit of force, and it made that noise a Styrofoam object makes when it's dropped. She smiled up at Nick. Her smile was big and happy; Nick could clearly see her buck teeth.
"That was pretty good. Would you get me another cup?" She picked the empty cup back up and held it out to Nick.
"As much as I would love to do that for you Carrots I don't think you need any more right now. How about we meander back to the dome and see what Edward is doing?"
While they were talking more people had come into the room and were getting drinks and something to eat. There was actually a good number of people in the room; well over half that had been in the dome earlier. Since the jukebox was turned on and lit up it attracted the attention of other people and so it was playing more songs.
Judy groaned. "Well fine I'll just get some myself. I'm sure Edward won't mind." She winked as she stood up and walked up to the drink table.
Nick stood up shortly after with his slightly full cup in paw. "I'm heading to the dome." He called to Judy as he walked to the doors."
"Alright Nick. I'll be there in a minute." She answered. She turned back around and started making her drink. Probably to save money and time Edward didn't mix up anything other than the punch and coffee.
Judy was busy pouring the packet of hot chocolate mix into the cup of hot water when she heard someone walk up behind her.
"Miss Hopps?" Asked a female voice.
Judy turned around to see the Jaguar from earlier was standing behind her with a smile. "Yes?"
"Could I get your autograph for my son? You're such an inspiration to him."
Judy realizing what was going on. "Sure of course." She pulled out the carrot pen and her note book. Even though she wasn't on the job Judy still liked to keep them with her in case she thought of something so she could write it down. She flipped to the back page where she knew there wouldn't be any notes. "What's his name?"
"Russell Evens."
Judy finished writing the autograph and tore the page out. She wished she had one of her junior ZPD officer stickers to put on it, but sadly she didn't. The bunny held out the note to the mother in front of her. Who took and held it like it was priceless. "Thank you so much Miss Hopps! He's going to love this."
"It's no problem; my pleasure. If you want I could get my partner's autograph for you too?"
"I already sent my husband to get his. Speaking of which I need to go find him. It's almost time for us to leave to pick Russell up from his scout meeting. Thanks again Miss Hopps!" She smiled and she turned to leave.
"You're welcome!" Judy waved goodbye. Once the friendly mother had walked out the doors Judy turned around to resume working on her drink.
When she had finished she took a sip which was a little too hot. Then she decided to join Nick back in the dome. On the way back the grey bunny pulled out her phone to check the time. What she saw shocked her; they had already been there for more than an hour. It sure didn't feel anything like an hour. It felt more like twenty minutes. Nick's story must have taken more time to tell than she realized.
It sure didn't help that it looked later that it was when they had gotten there. Since it was snowing it made it look later then it really was. They had arrived around six, and it was now seven. There was still almost an hour of daylight until it was going to be dark for the rest of Zootopia. To Judy it felt like it was much later.
No use in worrying about it too much. She thought as she resumed her walk. Once the doors were in sight she could clearly see Nick, Edward and Chuck talking and laughing together.
Judy walked up Chuck who was still laughing about something. "Wow Mr. Wilde You make being a cop sound like fun." He said between small laughs.
"So." Judy opened. "What embarrassing thing did you tell them? I hope it's not about me." She grumbled while trying to hide a smile.
"Why Carrots I would never do such a thing to my partner. But I would do it to a certain wolf I know that's scared of spiders."
"Nick you didn't." She said in a disappointed tone.
"Quite the contrary; I did. I was just telling Edward and Chuck here about the time I put a fake spider in Wolford's desk drawer."
Flash back:
Judy remembered that day very well. It all started as a normal Tuesday with rollcall. Which didn't lead anywhere interesting it was a very slow day. Everyone was in their office or cubical doing backed up paperwork. Suddenly there was a scream and a loud bang followed by the sound of stuff clattering to the floor. The sound was enough to make Judy nearly spring completely out of her char.
The next thing the fox and bunny know their office door explodes open and there stood Chief Bogo with a look that could kill and a coffee mug still in hoof. The words on said mug read: Have you flogged your crew today?
Both the fox and bunny gulped as they read what the cup said. "What was that noise?" The buffalo asked in a sweet tone.
Judy turned around in her char to fully face the chief. "Sir I know what you're thinking but it wasn't Nick this time."
"Then who was it?" He asked in a more agitated tone.
This time Nick turned around to answer. "Well if I had to guess it sounded like it came from down the hall around Wolford's office."
For a long moment Bogo stared at the fox trying to make him squirm. But it wasn't working very well as the apparently very bomb proof fox started picking at one of his claws.
After a finale snort Bogo turned and left the office with a bang from the door.
Judy looked over at Nick. "What did you do this time Nick?"
"I haven't left this office since the briefing earlier. And I didn't make that loud noise. So I didn't do anything."
"So yeah I put a fake spider in Wolford's desk and when he saw it he kicked it over and hid behind Fangmyer as she searched through the rubble with a rolled news paper for it."
"You know Mr. Wilde; you shouldn't be so hard on Wolford. He's a good guy." Edward said between chuckles.
"I know, but it's good for him; keeps him on his toes. And they all got even with me last year on prank day. Even Carrots here was in on it, sort of."
Judy smiled and started talking next. "Yeah Bogo had me stay at home for the first part of the day said I needed a break for some reason. Then he called Nick in early saying I had been hit by a car and was at the hospital."
Nick's ears were folded back with the reminder of that horrible day. With the way he felt about Judy it was all he could do not to cry when he heard the awful news. When he got to the hospital he was in such a panic they actually needed to call Judy to come in and calm him down. Over the next week everyone in the station, including the chief, were pranked by Judy mercilessly. All of them in a way that would target a weakness they had. (She pushed Wolford into the cleaning closet which she had packed full of fake spiders. For the next twenty minutes he was very quiet until he called Fangmyer over the radio to come save him.) Ever since then it was agreed that no one would play that sort of trick on either the fox or the bunny.
While the group was talking the dome above their heads was slowly turning. Edward said it would be faster if he could get that upgraded gear laying system. The other people were quite fast to look at the sky most were plum happy to take a look at some random stars. So it was going to be Nick and Judy's turn to look in a short while.
There was a pause in the conversation for a moment as everyone thought of what to talk about next.
"So Edward what is so special about this mystery planet you're going to show us?" Nick asked. Since he had been talked into looking at it he might as well try and find out what made it unique.
Edward smiled. More than you can possibly imagine. "Oh nothing super spectacular other than it's almost exactly like the Earth. We call it Jabrars after the astronomer that discovered it almost four thousand years ago. Shortly after we rediscovered it in nineteen-fifty-five we found several ancient manuscripts describing the planet and its location almost exactly."
Judy had a thoughtful look on her face. "I think I might have heard of that once when some of my brothers were watching one of their science shows. It was talking about how it was a good planet to try to colonize."
Edward nodded his head to the bunny. "You're right Miss. Hopps. It's among the top three that we would choose from if we had the technology. It's doing pretty good considering we've found thousands of planets that might support life."
Nick whistled. "Wow Carrots aren't you glad I picked such a cool planet to look at tonight?" He elbowed the bunny next to him playfully.
Judy on the other paw just rolled her purple eyes and shook her head in a 'he'll never stop will he?' kind of fashion. "Whatever you say Slick." There was a dull boom sound as the dome stopped rotating which subsequently stopped any playful arguments that were about to take place.
Edward looked up at the large structure seeming to survey it. "Okay guys she's in position. Who wants to look first?"
"What kind of a fox would I be if I didn't let this beautiful lady go before myself?" He did a bow towards the platform that normally housed the various attachments for the telescope but now a just char sat there. "After you my dear Carrots."
Ears and face slightly blushing Judy turned and looked at her friend beside her. She smiled at him before taking his paw and leading them over to the base of the telescope. When they got there Judy sat down as Nick adjusted the looking port to her height.
"Thanks Nick."
"No problem."
Judy was excited about what she would see and that was making her slightly nervous. Kind of like the feeling on Christmas morning when she was a kit right before she got to open her presents. She took a breath to help boost her confidence then leaned forward and put her eye to the glass.
At first she couldn't make out much because the picture was blurry. But soon enough it cleared up and she could see. About in the middle of her vision with a background of stars Judy could see a small blue planet with a blue ring around it. She couldn't tell but if she were to guess it was about the size of the Earth. When she held her breath she was still enough to be able to see land mass and even clouds but there was no green what so ever. In fact the chunks of land she could see were a red color like Mars.
Nick crouched down and stuck his head right next to Judy's ear. "What do you see Carrots? Is it cool like Edward says?"
Judy took her eye away from the telescope and turned to look at her friend next to her. "Well I see some sort of object I'm not really sure what it is though. Here take a look." She grabbed his head and pulled it in front of the eyepiece.
Not really expecting to have his head grabbed by a pair of really soft bunny paws Nick was unable to resist Judy pulling his head towards the telescope. Before he knew it he was looking at a blanket of stars. Unlike most of the ones he was used to seeing these one were many different colors. After marveling at the beauty so many different colors he decided to focus on what Judy was talking about.
After a moment of Nick practically lying across Judy's lap (she really had to resist the urge to rub behind his ears.) Nick turned around to look at her. "Since you asked me Carrots I would say that is Edward's planet. Isn't it Edward?" He looked behind them to confirm if he was right.
Edward and Chuck had moved back up to the catwalk and were looking at some computer simulations about something. Edward looked up from the screen and down at the other fox. "Yep that's it."
Judy smirked. "I knew that. I was just seeing if you could figure it out."
"Has anyone ever told you you're a very sly bunny? I was worried there for a second that you might be needing glasses."
"I don't need glasses. I bet they'd make me look dumb anyway."
"I bet you'd look-"
Judy gave Nick a look that could make it rain fire on a snowy winter day. "Don't you even think about finishing that sentence Wilde."
Nick raised his paws hoping it would calm the bunny down so she wouldn't skin him to get his tail. "Fine I'll be quite. No more talking; ranger scout's honor."
Satisfied with the result Judy nodded and looked through the telescope again. Because of the Earth's rotation and some adjustments Edward was making. The view was a different planet this time.
For the next twenty minutes the duo took turns looking at several different planets that were all part of the Arcon System which had eighteen in all. Seven with a base of rock, five gas giants, and a surprisingly large amount of liquid based ones totaling six in all.
As they looked they talked, not specifically about the planets, they just talked. It was one of the rare moments between them when they weren't trying to tease. It was quite nice to be able to relax.
When they had their fill of star gazing they got up and went to tell Edward. Once again he thanked them for what they were doing and thanked them for coming. After that they all wished each other good nights then Nick and Judy left the dome paw in paw.
Once they were again in the long hallway Nick spoke. "Did you notice how tense and nervous Edward was acting just a second ago?"
Judy nodded her head making her ears bob. "Yeah he must have some pressing work that needs his attendance."
Nick was quite for a second until they were passing the doors to the gym. He had to tell Judy. But how? His nerves were eating him and he was losing his resolve. Suddenly he had an idea. "While we're here I wanna get another coffee. Do you want some more hot cocoa for the road?"
"Sure Nick."
If Nick was lucky the jukebox might still be playing music. And if he was really lucky it might be playing a song him and Judy could dance to. When they entered the room Nick was dismayed to find that the jukebox was quite.
As quick as Nick could (which was fast) he thought of a plan. Since he only needed to pour a cup of coffee for himself and Judy needed to mix her drink up. The delay would give him the chance to pick a song.
As Judy was busy pouring hot water into her cup she noticed Nick wasn't waiting by her side like she had been expecting. Then she herd the speakers crackle and the jukebox started playing. She turned around and was shocked to find Nick right there with his paw held out.
"May I have this dance?"
Judy was utterly shocked never before had anyone ever asked to dance with her. She was always the weird one around school so that led to her only having a couple friends and none of them were boys. So she never got a date to her first prom. She didn't even try to get one for her second; at that point it was all meaningless to her anyway.
Without speaking Judy slowly reached out and put her paw in Nick's. He smiled one of his few genuine smiles at her; no smirk devised to be a mask.
Nick led Judy to the open part of the room where he put a paw on her mid-section. In return she put one of hers on his shoulder. With their height difference it was a little uncomfortable but they were enjoying it.
Nick had picked a song by The Eagles: The last Resort.
To the music they both started swaying and turning around each other. Nether spoke they just looked into the other's eyes.
Judy sighed and looked down for a second. When she looked back up at the fox she was wearing a smile. She let go of Nick and wrapped her arms around his chest in a hug. She leaned her head on him and listened to his heart. "Thank you Nick."
As soon as Nick heard her he wrapped his arms around her. Okay Wilde He thought as they swayed back and forth. It's now or never and I won't settle for never.
He gently grabbed Judy's shoulders and moved her away from himself and kneeled down to be more her height. "Listen, Judy I need to tell you something."
Judy looked up and saw the serous expression on Nick's face. With the use of her real name he had her attention. "Yes Nick, what is it?"
"For a long time now I've felt this way." He paused to work up the last of his courage. With one last sigh "Judy Hopps I-"
Ring
It was Judy's phone. She groaned and her ears folded back in irritation.
Ring
"I'm so sorry Nick I forgot my parents usually call tonight.
Ring
Can I get this otherwise they won't stop calling until I pick up?"
Ring
Of all the moments to have this happen this was by far the worst ever. Even though Nick was upset about the interruption he was positive. It's alright I'll just tell her in a minute. It won't be all romantic like I was wanting but I'm sure she won't mind that much. Nick sighed. "No problem Carrots."
"Thank you Nick. I still want to know what you had to tell me so don't think I'm just going to forget." She turned around and walked out into the hall. Right when she was about to hit the answer icon; the call was disconnected.
"What? That's weird I just had three bars." It was true she did just have three bars of survive and right before her eyes it had disappeared. Something was wrong with her phone. "Hey Nick come out here."
Nick having heard the urgency in her voice came out almost right away. "What is; is something wrong?"
"I'm not sure. Is your cell getting any signal?"
He pulled it out and checked. "Huh that's weird it doesn't. I was getting it before in this building."
"I know same here. I just lost it in the middle of my phone call." Suddenly her ears shot straight up and faced towards the front exit down the hall.
Nick saw this and knew something was happening. "What did you hear?" he whispered.
"I heard a crash but it's quite now." Her eyes widened. "Maybe it was Edward or Chuck we should go check to see if they're alright."
Nick nodded his head and followed Judy as she jogged off. When they got to Edwards conference room Judy stuck her head in. "Mr. Sanders are you in there?" She got no answer.
"Maybe they're further down?" Nick suggested.
Without a word they kept going. When they rounded the last of the bend in the hall they saw. It was nether Edward or Chuck. The mammal that stood facing them was lynx only much bigger.
Cliffhanger! Yeah! Is this a good one? Yes? No? Maybe? XD
Well what do you think? Enough fluff in this one? Do you guys know what is going to happen now? I bet not. Muhahahaha! What did you guys think about Nick's sad back story? Was it a good idea to have it in this chapter? Who here likes his car, because I sure do. If you don't know what it looks like look up 1972 LTD, it's really nice.
Next I'd like to send out a special thanks to Anonamoose for suggesting the mug we saw the chief using in this chapter. Thanks for the suggestion and kind reviews buddy! :)
I'll admit it I'm pretty bad with the animal puns. I could not for the life of me think of one for Johnny Cash. This chapter's request is: can you think of an animal pun for the name Johnny Cash?
That's all for now. Happy Thanksgiving!
*cool narrator voice*
On the next chapter of To Stand Together or Not at All. Nick and Judy's trust in each other will go through the ultimate test as they fight for their lives. Will they survive what they uncover? Find out next time on To Stand Together or Not at All!