Hey everyone! Several things. First I am happy to say that I have a Beta reader that is helping make these chapters what you all deserve, so a huge thanks to my pal Archie. Second, sorry for the long overdue chapter. Sadly, the holidays got in the way a bit. Lastly, please don't be shy is letting me know what you think. Love it or hate it I want to know. Just please be respectful. Enjoy!
Chapter 11: Whispers
POV (Nick)
"Mmmmm...ugh" I groaned as pleasurable feelings radiated from my erection, waking me. I was laying on my side, holding Judy tight with my uncuffed paw. "That's right... I'm still cuffed." I thought. I lay there for a moment enjoying the sensation of the naked bunny pressed tightly against me. Her smaller frame seemingly fitting perfectly into my larger one as we spooned. So perfectly in fact, my erection was pressed squarely against her shapely ass. I shifted slightly to see the clock, causing me to rub against her sending additional shots of pleasure through my body. I was just barely able to see the clock, noticing that it was due to go off in ten minutes. "Perfect."
Normally I hated waking up before the alarm, but with Judy here, I didn't mind. It meant that I could spend ten more minutes snuggling my bunny. As I rolled back over, I involuntarily moved my hips ever so slightly grinding into Judy, earning a small moan and wiggle in return. This small exchange and resulting pleasurable sensations, started a downward spiral that I was powerless to stop.
I thrust forward again, grinding a bit harder this time. I wasn't sure if Judy was awake or not, but she again pushed back into me. It didn't take long before our instincts took over and we became more synchronized in our motions, her grinding back into me as I pushed forward.
After a time, I felt Judy reach behind her and grip my erection. Without a word, she guided it lower. I felt the tip of my penis brush against her wet folds and I thought about pulling away, but I held my ground. To a mixture of relief and disappointment, she didn't guide me into her, but instead placed me between her thighs. As we continued to grind and thrust, I could feel the wetness and heat of her. The sensations I felt were amazing. They were waking in me a primal desire that I had all but forgotten.
Small moans escaped her mouth as her movements became more frantic and desperate. For me, it was like music, fueling my own passion and desire. In my need, I tried running my free paw over her body. I wanted to feel every inch of her, but I was foiled by the damn bandage. Frustrated, I almost missed the change in Judy's vocalizations. Her moans had turned to small whimpers. It was a sound that I remembered vividly from or escapade the night before. She was close, and I was determined to make sure she got there. I increased my thrusts as I started biting her neck and shoulders gently. I wasn't sure if the nipping was appreciated, but she seemed to enjoy it. Suddenly, with a screamed moan, Judy began trembling as her orgasm hit. I continued my thrusts, even as her legs clamped tighter on me, helping to prolong her pleasure.
As she began to come down from bliss, I slowed as well, eventually stopping all together. We laid there a moment before Judy spoke. "Um... slick? I think you can let go know." She said with a slight giggle. For reasons unknown, I was clutching her tightly to me, my jaws still clamped on her shoulder.
I quickly disengaged before replying, "Sorry, I didn't mean to bite you. I hope you are ok." I said remorsefully.
"Mmmm, it was more than ok. Honestly, you are setting the bar rather high when it comes to how I would prefer for you to wake me." She purred. "But did you finish?"
"No but that's ok, this was for you." I answered, rolling onto my back causing her to gasp as I pulled away, sliding out from between her thighs, rubbing her sensitive flesh.
"Oh... no. I can't have that. What kind of girlfriend would I be?" She said quickly sitting up. I watched as she moved over to my waist and took my erection into her mouth. All I could do was lay back and moan as I was enveloped in warmth and she worked her magic.
Having been close already, it didn't take long before Judy had me on the edge again. As she pulled back to flick her tongue around my tip, I could feel my resolve fading. Remembering last night, I quickly issued a warning. "Judy, I'm close." I said.
Judy, nodded in understanding. However, she didn't skip a beat. Putting me back into her mouth she used one paw to stroke me, while the other was used to softly play with my scrotum. The added sensations pushed me over the edge. My body tensed and my eyes closed as my orgasm hit. Pleasure spread through me like a wave.
As the wave began to subside, I opened my eyes and looked at my girlfriend "Girlfriend. I need to get used to that." She was still bent over my waist, gently licking and stroking my arousal as it began to dissipate. She looked up at me with an utterly satisfied look on her face, eyes aglow. With a small smile, she slowly started moving up my body. Her movements were so predatory, so feral and yet so sexy and seductive. Reaching my head, she wasted no time in engaging me in a kiss. I happily reciprocated. We probably would have gone on forever, had we not been interrupted by my alarm going off.
Breaking the kiss with a heavy sigh, Judy sat back. "That's a shame. I was really having fun." She said with a small pout.
"Yeah, I was too. You know, you're good at that. But did you... you know?" I asked, a bit shy to say it.
"What? Let you cum in my mouth? Yep. Problem?" She said giggling at my expression.
"Definitely, not. Just not expected." I said.
"Good, because you taste really good." She replied with a wink.
"You really are a naughty bunny, aren't you?" I asked jokingly.
"Oh... you haven't seen naughty." She replied. "Not yet anyway. But hey, we need to get ready for work. How about I let you out and you go shower. I will get us some breakfast. Then I will take one."
"You won't join me?" I asked. It was my turn to pout.
"Nope. You know if I do we will be extremely late. If we even make it at all." She pointed out, grabbing a key from her bag to unlock the pawcuffs.
"You're right. My girlfriend is so smart." I commented with a grin.
"Yeah... and my boyfriend is so adorable... and dumb." She shot back unlocking the cuffs.
"Ouch. Boyfriend? Carrots I can't be tied down like this. Labels will send the wrong message to all the other ladies." I teased sitting up and giving her a peck to reassure her. "Ok, I will shower, you get breakfast. If you want, we can have that fruit pizza from last night. We never did have dessert."
"No... I definitely remember having dessert last night." She countered with a wink. "But the fruit pizza sounds great. Too bad we can't have the wine with it."
POV (Judy)
Nick and I left the bedroom and parted ways. He split off to head to the bathroom and I hung a few steps behind. I kept my eyes on his firm butt and swaying tail until he disappeared behind the door as it shut. I would never admit it too him, but I think I was as much in love with that butt as I was with him. With a smile and shake of my head, I made my way to the kitchen to get us breakfast.
Opening the fridge, I pulled out the forgotten dessert from last night and set it on the counter. As I went about finding plates and utensils for us, I couldn't help but marvel at Nick's kitchen. His mom must truly have taught him well, because everything was so well organized. I easily found what I was looking for, including a coffee maker, grinder, and beans.
"Oh good... I need coffee." I said as I heard the shower start.
After getting a large pot of coffee brewing, and two healthy slices of pizza for the two of us, I went back to the bedroom. Looking through Nick's dresser, I found one of his ZPD academy training shirts and slipped it on. For a moment, I was lost in myself as I inhaled his scent from the fabric.
In any other circumstance, Nick's shirts would be too large for me to really wear. However, being naked, it was perfect. Its size was just right to basically count as a nightie, coming down to about mid-thigh. Happily, I skipped back into the living room and heard the shower still on. "Such a vain fox." I thought with a wry smile. Not too worried about time, since we were on desk duty and could be a bit more flexible with our schedule, I decided to wait for Nick by calling my parents.
For most mammals, a social call this early in the morning would be out of the question. But, that would be for most. For the Hopps clan, this was a normal morning. Being farmers, I knew they were already up and probably had been for a while.
Scrolling through my contacts, I selected my mom's number and hit dial. As I waited for her to pick up, I hit the video call function before picking up my breakfast and taking a bite. "Mmmmm... oh my god. Nick is a Genius!" I gushed chewing. That instant, my mom accepted my call and came on screen.
"Hi, hun. Everything ok?" She asked a bit worried.
"Everything is great Mom." I answered, getting lost in another bite of pizza. "I wonder if it is possible to get high off food."
"I can see that." Mom chuckled seeing my face. "So, what can I do for you?"
"I just wanted to call. I haven't checked in for a few days. How are things? Dad out in the fields already? " I asked.
"Oh, things are great. Your brothers and sisters are all busy getting ready for Halloween. Been making costumes and whatnot for most of the week. The town is going to be putting on a Halloween festival this year. You should come if you can get off." She said, "And you know your father, he is out the door tending the fields minutes after waking."
"Yeah, Dad always was a dedicated farmer." I agreed. "I will see if I can come home for the festival, but I can't guarantee anything. I am on a big case right now."
"Oh?" Mom said ears perking up. "Is it dangerous?"
"I can't talk about the case, you know that." I said dismissively.
"I know. But I am a mother. I worry." She said honestly, "But, Judy? What is really going on? You are glowing. And that is not your apartment."
"I'll be safe. Promise." I reassured her, before smiling. "And you are right it's not. I must get my police instincts from you because you catch everything. It's Nick's place."
"Oh? And...?" She said, her full attention now on Judy. "Are things better between you too?"
"Better than that." I said emphatically. "I love him, and he loves me. He is my boyfriend."
"Oh honey! That is wonderful. Your father and I have always liked Nick. He is such a great guy. I am so happy you two were able to work things out." She gushed. "So, you clearly spent the night, are you...OH MY!"
"What..." I began before I heard Nick walking behind me and turned to see a completely naked fox. "Nick! Where are your clothes?! I'm on a video chat with my mom!"
"You're... on a... SHIT!" He repeated as my words dawned on him and he sprinted from the room.
I looked back at the phone and my mother. Her ears were bright red and she was struggling to control herself. "Mom, I am so sorry." I said.
"Hahaha... no need, sweety." She said laughing. "I was going to ask if you two were intimate, but I guess I know the answer to that."
"MOM! That is a little personal, and I really don't want to talk about my sex life with my mother." I said embarrassed.
"Oh hush. It is nothing to be ashamed of. But, how about I talk to you later hun. Tell Nick, I said hi and bring him with you if you can for Halloween. The kits miss him, especially your brothers and your father and I would love to congratulate you two in person." She said.
"Ok, Mom. And I will, hopefully if we can make it, he will be able to look you in the face after this." I said laughing. "Love you. Talk soon."
"We love you too. Bye." She replied ending the call, just as Nick was walking back in wearing a pair of sweat pants.
POV (Nick)
"So how is your mother?" I asked walking to the coffee pot.
"I'm sure much better now. After all she got to see one really hot fox in all his glory." She said a bit bitterly. "Ever hear of modesty?"
"This coming from the bunny who paw cuffed me last night, can't get enough of me and willingly went without putting on panties?" I chuckled, "Plus, how was I to know you were video chatting?"
"Well, its sexy and adorable when I do it." She countered with a smile.
"And who is the judge of that?" I asked already knowing the answer.
"I am of course." She giggled.
"I see and I just follow your lead, is that it?" I asked in mocked astonishment.
"Now you are getting it. This relationship might work after all." She said pushing herself from the table and joining me by the coffee.
"I hate you sometimes... know that?" I smirked.
"Do not. You love me." She replied giving me a kiss on the cheek as she took my coffee from my paw and started walking to the bathroom. As she walked, she flipped up the back of the shirt she was wearing so that it rested above her tail. I sat transfixed, watching the tantalizing sway of her hips as she walked, my penis twitching slightly. "Oh, she has me around her finger."
Not wanting to have a "personal" problem before going to work, I turn my attention to getting another cup of coffee. By the time I had finished, Judy was gone, locked away in the bathroom as the shower started up. Free from the sexual torment of my girlfriend, I walked to the table and began eating my breakfast.
Never being one to take long meals, I quickly finished. With Judy in the shower and plenty of time till we had to leave for work, I started to clean the dishes from breakfast and dinner the night before. Luckily, I had a dishwasher so "cleaning" mostly consisted of rinsing and stacking. "Thank you, modern world." I thought.
Finished, I turned to head to my room to begin getting dressed for work. As I walked passed the table, I noticed that Judy left her phone laying there. A mischievous smile crept onto my lips as I grabbed it. Hearing the shower still running, I almost ran to my room knowing that time was against me.
A few minutes later, I emerged dressed in my uniform. A pleased smile occupying my face as I went to return the phone. Just as I placed it on the table, the shower turned off. In an effort to keep my face neutral and not draw attention to myself, I poured myself another cup of coffee. Sipping gently as Judy exited the bathroom.
POV (Judy)
Finishing my shower, I wrapped myself in one of Nick's towels and stepped out of the bathroom. Looking around, I saw him leaning against the counter in the kitchen sipping at his cup of coffee and looking at his phone. Just seeing him standing there in his uniform so casually brought a smile to my face. This was how I wanted every morning to be. "Don't get ahead of yourself."
Going into the bedroom, I grabbed my bag and started pulling out my uniform. Luckily it hadn't gotten too wrinkled in the bag. Still, I needed to straighten it out a bit before putting it on. Laying it on the bed, I began smoothing out the wrinkles, blissfully unaware of an approaching danger.
As I dropped my towel and bent over to put on my panties, I heard a growl and felt a pair of paws grab me around my waist and jaws start to nip at my neck. "Eeeeeppp!" I squealed, before giggling. I reached back and stroked the head of my attacker. "Mmmmmm Hey you. We have to work you know."
"No, we don't. We will just call in sick." Nick countered, before going back to kissing and biting my neck and shoulders gently.
"As much as I would love that, we don't have a choice. Besides, it's your first day back. Best not to piss off the chief." I told him. But I didn't make any move to pull away. Instead leaning back into Nick more.
"Now how am I supposed to go to work when I have this sexy naked bunny in my apartment?" He asked.
"Hmm... that is a good point. Tell you what, you let me go and we can have fun real fast." I whispered into his ear.
"Deal!" He said eagerly.
As he stepped back, I quickly grabbed my panties and slipped them on. Realizing his mistake, Nick groaned and lunged forward to recapture me. Anticipating this I dodged him and jumped onto the bed and off the other side laughing. He continued to chase me around for a few minutes until we were both a bit winded. Surrendering, I accepted my fate and moved into Nick's waiting arms. We kissed tenderly, enjoying the embrace.
"Hey, you need to get dressed, we are going to be late." Nick taunted releasing me as the game ran its course.
I just gave him a little frown as I punched him in the arm. "Well if we are, it's your fault. My big, dumb, kit of a fox. Always wanting to play games."
"I can't help it. I just can't get enough of you." He said kissing my nose and walking away. I watched him leave and gave a content sigh.
Coming back to the present, I quickly started putting on my uniform. Even with a more relaxed schedule, I knew Chief Bogo would not be overly patient with us. Plus, we had a lot to do, especially in regards to the meeting with Mr. Big.
As I was putting on my vest and adjusting the straps, I saw Nick return out of the corner of my eye. I held still, waiting for his prank. I trembled slightly in excitement, but nothing happened. A bit let down I turned to look at Nick. He was just standing against the door frame grinning and staring at me.
"Something wrong?" I asked.
"Not at all." he replied. His grin growing larger.
"Then why are you grinning like that." I said.
Nick stood up taller, his ears pinned back and eyes slightly wider. "Oh, I'm sorry Judy. I didn't realize I was." He said sincerely. "I guess I am just really happy to have you in my life. Have I told you I love you yet today?"
"Not is so many words." I replied tearing up. "But I know you do."
"Well, let me fix that. I love you Judy Hopps." He said stepping forward.
"I love you too." I said beaming. "But you know Judith is my full name, right?"
"Sure, but you aren't in trouble yet, so that should wait for later." He laughed.
"Ugh... you are so corny." I giggled. "Come on let's get to work. I drive today."
POV (Nick)
Our drive to work was rather routine. After climbing into the car, we naturally fell into a set pattern of small talk. The thought of it made me laugh a bit. Here we were just starting this whirlwind of a relationship and all we could talk about was plans for the weekend. Sure, things were moving rather fast and things were getting increasingly hot and heavy between us, but we interacted as if we had been dating for months. "Maybe we have and just didn't know it." I thought.
"Hey! You awake over there?" Judy asked.
"What?" I replied confused.
"I asked what are we going to talk to Mr. Big about. How much should we tell him?" She said.
"Well, when we get to the station, let's talk to the chief and the three of us can come up with a game plan." I told her. She thought a moment then nodded her head.
We rode in silence a moment before I spoke again. "Hey Carrots, Can I ask you something?"
"Of course, Nick, anything." She answered.
"Ok, but you can't get mad," I warned. "Do you think we are moving too fast?"
Judy's ears fell slightly as I could tell she was thinking about her answer. "No... I don't think so." She began. "We have known each other a while and we are best friends. I feel like... it seems as if..."
"We have already been dating a while?" I finished for her, sensing her fear.
"Well, yes. Is this not what you want?" She asked, grip tightening on the wheel.
"What? NO!" I practically shouted. "It's nothing like that. I just wanted to see if we were on the same page. Honestly, I was thinking the same thing about us."
"Ok, good. I really didn't want to have to kill my partner for breaking my heart." She teased.
"Wow... That's harsh, Fluff." I laughed.
"So... umm... Slick? Since we are kind of on the topic, what do you like about me?" She shyly asked.
"What isn't there to like?" I said not giving it much thought.
"I'm serious." She said pointedly.
"Ok well, I love your dedication to things you care about. I love your optimistic views. I love your cleverness and wit. I love how caring you are and how you want to help everyone. But the thing I love most, is how you saw me for something other than a fox and never gave up on me." I told her before adding with a wink, "Plus I also really love your cute little bunny butt."
"Har-har... keep that up and you will never see my CUTE bunny butt again." She said pulling into the station. She stressed the word cute, but I could tell she wasn't mad.
We got out of the cruiser and headed into the station. Crossing over the threshold, our demeanor became all business, our personal life put aside. To all our fellow officers, we were just good friends and nothing more. For the time being, while we figured everything out ourselves, it was how we preferred it. We easily missed the morning briefing, but that was to be expected and not really that detrimental to our task. After giving our customary hello to Clawhauser, we headed for the chief's office.
Reaching the Chief's door, we took a moment to make sure our uniforms were in proper order before I reached out and knocked. Almost immediately, we were answered by Bogo's gruff voice through the door. Slowly we entered and stood at attention waiting for him to look up from the paperwork on his desk.
"Sit down you two." He said somewhat softer. "Wilde, good to really see you back."
"Thank you, sir." I answered taking my seat.
"What do you two want?" He inquired.
"Really nothing sir. We have our meeting with Mr..." Judy began getting cut off by Bogo raising his paw.
"Better left unsaid." He pointed out.
"Oh, um right." Judy continued. "Well we have our meeting in a few hours and wanted to coordinate with you first. Decide what to divulge and what to keep secret."
"Were there any developments overnight?" I asked while the chief leaned back thoughtfully.
"Nothing new, we are still trying to identify the two victims, but that is proving troublesome." He said.
"Why is that. It should be easy from pad prints and dental records." Judy said frowning.
Bogo nodded, "It should, but there doesn't seem to be any records of them. Keep in mind though that about fifteen percent of the populace is still not registered in the data base."
"Those are still rather small odds for both to be missing." Judy interjected.
"Which is why I have asked for a court order to run their DNA against all known data bases... including medical." He replied.
"Is that allowed?" I asked a bit shocked.
"We will find out. But with a dangerous unknown group out there, I am willing to try anything I can to stop them." He said.
"We will sir. I promise you. I... we won't rest until we get those bastards." Judy said committed.
"I know. Which is why you two are leads on this. You have a way of seeing things differently than most your fellow officers. If anyone can stop these guys it is you." He said sincerely. "Now as far as your meeting goes, only tell him vague details. He can know the businesses hit, but not the items taken. He can know number of victims, but not the species or cause of death."
"You got it sir." I said as Judy and I stood to leave.
"Hopps, you are dismissed. Wilde, a moment please." Bogo said.
"I'll see you at our desks." Judy told me, running her paw over my shoulder.
Once she had left and Judy shut the door, I looked at the chief with a questioning look. It didn't take long before he answered my unasked question.
"When are you seeing the therapist?" He asked.
"Actually, I was going down to her office next. With luck, I will have the first session this afternoon." I answered truthfully.
"Good. I need you guys on the street. This gang isn't giving us anything to work with. We will only catch them out there and with your past... talents, you and Hopps seem to be best positioned to finding them." He reasoned.
"You can count on me sir." I told him straightening up a bit before turning to leave.
As I stepped out of the office, I pulled out my phone to text Judy and let her know where I was going. As I hit the send button, smiling roguishly at what I imagined her face would look like. Satisfied, I put my phone back in my pocket and headed towards the department therapist's office.
POV (Judy)
"No, its ok Francine. Nick is my partner. If he's on desk duty, then I am too. I wouldn't think of going out without him." I told the elephant again when she offered to take me as her partner.
"Ok... Just thought I would double check. Never thought you were much for paperwork." She said shrugging.
"I appreciate it, but it won't be for long." I said as I felt my phone buzz.
"Yeah, just be careful. The way you and Wilde are together, mammals might start thinking you are dating. You know how the rumor mill around here is." She laughed.
"Ha. Yeah, wouldn't want that." I lied as I checked my phone and saw that Nick was going to the therapist's and would be out in a few minutes. As I exited out of my inbox, my jaw went slack and my ears began to burn as a deep blush crept over me. Saved as my background was a picture of Nick wearing only his uniform hat, laying on the bed seductively with a sly smirk and his erection in his paw. As I stared at the picture and admired his body, I could feel a heat growing between my legs.
"Judy, you ok?" Francine asked seeing my expression, moving around the back of the cubicle to check on me.
"What? Umm yeah..." I said quickly shutting the phone screen off and shoving it in my pocket. Unfortunately, it wasn't quiet fast enough.
"Ooooohhhh! Who was that? Do you have a boyfriend Judy?" Francine asked having caught a small glimpse of the picture. Luckily not a good enough one to recognize Nick. "Come on, fill me in!"
Not really ready to let our secret out of the bag yet, I had to think quickly. "Umm, no. That wasn't my boyfriend. I am not seeing anyone right now. That was my little sister playing a joke on me. She knows that I'm at work." I said quickly.
"Hahaha. I always wanted a sibling. They seem like so much fun. But hun, you really should find yourself a good guy. You work so hard. You need some fun in your life. You know... the adult kind." She said with a wink.
"Hey gals... what's going on?" Nick asked walking up. I gave him an icy glare that was only met with a knowing smirk.
"Oh, just girl talk." Francine replied.
"Oh, I see, well don't let me interrupt." Nick laughed as he sat across from me at his desk.
"No, its ok. I have to get going anyway." Francine said leaving.
Once she was gone, I looked at Nick. I wanted to be angry at him, but seeing him just made me think of the picture. Instead I wanted to grab him and lead him to a closet where I could have my way with him. As I just stared, Nick just looked on in his usual half-lidded smirk. Finally, I just gave up and went back to my work.
For the next couple of hours, it was almost as if I was back in high school. We shared stolen glances, brief smiles, and shy blushes. When I would catch him looking at me, my heart would skip a beat and I would feel butterflies in my stomach. It was such a weird experience. After everything we had been through and the fact that we have shared the same bed, I would have expected to be passed this. However, the thrill I felt when catching him staring at me was amazing. And when our gaze held and I looked into his soft, caring emerald eyes it was pure magic. As the hours passed, I was surprised that we got anything done. Well as much as could be done on the case given the existing evidence. It was Nick to speak first, breaking us from our little game.
"Hey Carrots. You ready to go?" He asked standing.
"Yeah. You know where we are going, so you drive." I said tossing the keys.
The drive to meet Mr. Big was uneventful. I wanted to get even with Nick for his surprise on my phone, but I knew now wasn't the time. Besides one of us had to be professional and I knew that wasn't going to be Nick.
"What are you smirking at?" Nick asked glancing at me.
"I was smirking? Sorry. Didn't realize." I answered.
"Uh huh... so what you thinking about?" He pressed.
"You will never know. Besides, we are here." I teased.
POV (Nick)
"Nick! Come in my boy. It has been too long." Mr. Big greeted us as we walked in. "And Judy, lovely as always."
"Always the smooth talker." Judy replied with a slight blush. "Is my goddaughter around? I would love to say hi."
"She is in the other room. Through there." Mr. Big gestured as Judy eagerly bounded away.
"Well... should have seen that coming." I chuckled.
"So, Nicky, what can I do for you?" Mr. Big asked getting to business.
"Well, I am looking for some information. We have this case." I began, only stopping when the little Arctic Shrew held up a paw.
"I can't help you." He said flatly.
"Mr. Big please." Judy asked re-emerging from the other room. "It's very important."
"My child, it's not that I don't want to help you. After all you and Nick are family, but I know the case you are talking about... all I know are rumors." He continued in a softer tone.
"We can work with rumors. It is more than we have anyway." I said.
"Very well." Mr. Big nodded, "But you didn't hear it from me."
Judy and I nodded, taking the seats offered to us by the crime boss. As we settled in, Mr. Big hit a button on his intercom and called for some refreshments to be brought out, before leaning back in his chair in thought. Meanwhile, Judy and I sat on the edge of our seats in apprehension. It wasn't so much that we were worried, but more that we were eager, like a couple of kits at story time.
Finally, after a couple of minutes, Mr. Big gave a small nod and sat forward. We did the same, not wanting to miss a single word. "Listen, you should know all that I am about to say is hearsay. It has all come to me through the grapevine of my various business associates." Mr. Big began. Before he continued, a side door opened with a mammal bringing refreshments.
"Hey! It's little toot-toot." Judy jested.
"Very funny fuzz... but my threat to bite your face off still stands." Finnick joked back.
"Buddy, you work for Mr. Big now?" I asked a bit confused. I had sort of hoped the new business venture he had told me about a while back was more legal.
"Work with? No, you misunderstand." Mr. Big chuckled. "He came to me looking for a job as a mechanic for my limo service, but after seeing his natural abilities we became partners and opened a car shop."
"Yep, I'm a business man now." Finnick stated, proud of himself. "We do tune ups, repairs, audio, detailing, you name it. And, it is all legit."
"He just comes around once a week to discuss business." Mr. Big nodded. "Plus, he is a hell of a cook, does my grandmama proud. Her recipes have found a new home with him."
"Do all foxes know how to cook?" Judy asked indignantly.
"Only us good ones." Finnick replied, earning a chuckle from me.
"It's true." I confirmed seeing Judy roll her eyes.
"But, you's look like you're on official fuzz business, so I will scram. I'll come back tomorrow Mr. B. Nick? You and I need a beer. Judy, take care of his punk ass." Finnick shouted over his shoulder as he left us.
"Glad to see he hasn't changed." Judy commented.
"He has changed more than you know, my dear. We all have, thanks to you." Mr. Big said smoothly.
"Awwww." Judy squeaked as tears of happiness formed in her eyes.
"You bunnies..." I said with a wink at her. "But sir, not to break the moment but this really is a pressing matter."
"Right. Like I was saying, this is pure conjecture. But there are whispers of a new player in Zootopia." Mr. Big said.
"We think it's a new street gang." Judy offered.
"No, my dear, much bigger." He shook his head. "They may be acting like a street gang, but they are not. I have heard talk a new paramilitary group is seeking a foothold in the city. Well led. Well supplied, and with a major dislike for the government and ZPD. Supposedly they are trying to quietly recruit locals."
"Do you know what they are called?" I asked, lightly nibbling at the treats Finnick brought.
Mr. Big nodded slowly before answering. "I have heard they call themselves the Free Prey Army. Their mantra seems to be to free all prey animals from the tyranny of preds. And from what my sources have told me, they are planning something big."
"That tracks, they have been robbing hardware stores and plant nurseries to gather supplies for explosives." I said as Judy shot me a disapproving look for divulging information the chief said to keep secret.
"If the stories I have heard are true, they are not to be taken lightly. They are serious, and are very dedicated to the cause. That's all I know." He added.
"Seems like a small faction. We've dealt with fanatics before." I pointed out, thinking of Bellwether.
"Just be careful." Mr. Big cautioned.
"We will. Thank you," Judy said with a smile. "And thank you so much for your time."
"Wait!" Mr. Big ordered as we stood up to leave. Confused, we turned back to our host. For a moment, Mr. Big eyed us thoughtfully. "You two are hiding something from me. I don't appreciate mammals lying to me."
Judy just looked on with a brow raised and an ear flopped over curious as I looked on passively, a tiny flash of past nervousness coming to mind.
"Something is different about you two..." Mr. Big began before breaking into a genuine, warm smile. "Ah... I know what it is. You two are a couple. Aren't you?"
I let out the breath I didn't know I was holding, as Judy handled our response.
"How could you tell?" she asked a bit shocked.
"I have my ways, my dear. But I must say you two make a wonderful couple, congratulations. Go now, but don't be strangers."
"Thank you, sir, and we won't. If you hear anything else, please let us know." I replied with a heartfelt smile.
POV (Judy)
Nick and I walked in silence back to the car. While the visit over all was pleasant, the information given to us by Mr. Big was anything but. In all honesty, it was rather unsettling. I had always heard of radical militia type groups existing, but it was always elsewhere in the country. Not here in Zootopia. But at least now we maybe had some leads to go on and that was something. I glanced at Nick to see if he was maybe having the same thoughts I was, but he was completely neutral. "Typical Nick" I thought.
As if he could feel me looking at him, he turned his head and our eyes me. For a second his usual facade held, but a small smile and a softening of his eyes soon surfaced. As if by magic, my mind cleared. The only thing that mattered was Nick, and his dreamy green eyes. I felt myself getting lost in him and losing my grasp on reality. Just when I was almost to that most pleasant of places, Nick's face turned to one of shock and horror. He raised his paw towards me, but it was too late.
THUD!
So, entranced with Nick, I walked right into the side of the cruiser. The surprise of it threw me off guard as I stumbled back a few steps before standing there dumb founded. Nick at first looked worried, but seeing that I was ok, he quickly doubled over in laughter.
"Oh... my... god... Carrots! Is this going to be a regular thing with you?" He wheezed.
"Don't laugh at me!" I yelled flinging the door open angrily. As I did, the corner accidentally caught Nick in the shin, causing him to yelp in surprise and slight pain. "Oh! Nick! I am so sorry. I didn't mean to do that."
Rubbing his shin, Nick looked up at me and smiled. "Its ok Carrots. I probably deserved that. How about we call it even." He suggested.
"Umm... not just yet." I said quickly walking up and giving him a small kiss. "There, now we are even." Satisfied, I climbed into the passenger seat for the ride back to the precinct.
"So, Slick, what is our game plan for this afternoon?" I asked.
"Well I figured, if you are hungry, stopping to grab some lunch on the way back to the station. Then, I have my first session this afternoon. Other than that, I am not sure. I guess we will see what happens." He said.
"Well, I'm not really hungry, but I know if we don't get lunch, then I will starve later." I said mostly to myself.
"Well, how about we just stop at the deli and get sandwiches. That way we can save them for later if we want." He suggested.
"Sounds good." I agreed.
A few minutes later we were in line at the deli. It was a modest little place, nothing fancy just your run of the mill family owned neighborhood deli. However, the owner of this establishment was a former firefighter so naturally, this was a favorite haunt for ZPD and ZFD personnel. After we placed our orders, we took a seat at one of the window tables to wait.
"So, Fluff, I have been meaning to ask you. What do you have planned next Friday?" Nick asked me.
"Nothing as of now. Why?" I replied.
"Well, you see, I got these hockey tickets from this girl." He began.
"Oh, someone I know?" I played along.
"No. I don't think so. She is a hot little thing though." He smirked.
"Oh, I see. Maybe I should have some words with her." I laughed.
"No, no need. I hear she is dating a big, tough, masculine cop." He said loving this.
"Oh, so you are tough are you." I blurted out laughing.
"Hey! I can be tough." He pouted.
"Sure, you can. My big, brave, wittle fox officer." I teased pinching his cheek.
"Well, I was going to ask if you wanted to go to the game, but I am not so sure I want you to go now." He said sorely.
"Oh, come on. You know you love me." I told him.
"Do I know that? Yes. Yes, I do." He smiled.
"Nick! Judy! Order up!" The deli owner called. We made our way over to grab our wrapped sandwiches.
"Thanks Sal!" I called as we left.
Climbing into the cruiser, I picked up our conversation. "Nick, I would love to go with you. But you may need to explain some things to me."
"Great. And no problem. What do you not understand?" He asked.
"Umm, everything." I said with a nervous laugh.
"Ok, well, there are two teams comprised of twenty players each. Two goalies, six defensmen, and twelve offensemen. Which are further broken up into four lines, each with a left winger, center, and right winger." He began, before noticing the look on my face. "This means nothing to you does it?"
"Not a word." I said shaking my head for emphasis.
"Yeah, might just be easier to explain once there." He agreed.
"Oh, that reminds me. Next weekend is Halloween. And there is going to be a festival back home. I was going to see if I could go. I would love to take you with me. Officially introduce you as my boyfriend. Plus, my brothers miss you. What do you say?" I asked.
"If Bogo lets us both go, sure. If you want, we can go to the game Friday, then catch the late train out to Bunnyburrow. We would get there about midnight." He said.
"You sure you can handle spending that much time with me?" I asked with a sparkle in my eye.
"Fluff, we are together most of the time already. Honestly, we spend so much time together, it almost seems like a waste that we have two apartments." He said off paw.
"Why Nicholas Wilde! Are you asking me to move in with you?" I teased, but secretly hoped was true.
"What? No! Of course not!" he said, a bit flustered. "I just mean that..."
"It's ok. I know what you mean." I said softly, a little hurt by his response. "But if you really had asked, I would have said yes."
"I know you would Carrots. I just don't think we should get ahead of ourselves is all." He said reasonably.
"Since when did you become the responsible one of the relationship?" I asked.
"Judy, these are strange times." He chuckled.
I laughed before falling back into a comfortable silence. Everything was right with the world. Despite everything, Nick could always make it better. As we pulled into the lot at the precinct, I couldn't help but reach out and take hold of Nick's now free paw. I didn't say a word, but just gave it a squeeze and looked up at him. He returned the favor with a squeeze of his own and a lazy smile, before opening the door. I grinned as I did the same, his unspoken message resonating in my head.
We walked together into the building as far as we could go. Once we crossed the lobby, it was time for us to split up. Nick had to go to his therapy session and I had to go back to my desk to make some notes in our case file before talking to the chief.
As I turned to leave, my breath caught in my throat as I felt Nick's paw graze over my ass, sending a shiver up my spine. The touch wasn't unwanted, but unexpected and I turned to say something. The only problem being Nick was already halfway down the opposite hall. I just watched him go. Once he was out of sight around the corner, I turned to head to my desk.
Sitting down and starting my computer, I let out a sigh. I knew that I had work to do, but my mind was preoccupied with thoughts of Nick, his touch, next week... everything. I tried to set my thoughts aside, to little success. "This is going to be a long week."
POV (Nick)
Walking down the hall to the therapist's office was officially the longest walk of my life. It was hard for me to talk about my past with Judy, but here I was about to spill my guts to someone I didn't even know. To make matters worse, this stranger held my fate in their paws. It was their decision if I got to go back to patrol. Hell. It was up to them if I was even able to stay on the force. So much riding on these sessions, and so much to potentially go wrong.
As I drew closer to the door, my anxiety grew. To steady my nerves, I took several deep breaths before I knocked on the door. At first I didn't hear anything and for a fleeting moment I thought that my appointment had been forgotten and I was getting a slight reprieve. I was about to let out a relieved sigh and return to my desk when I heard a voice from inside the office.
I hung my head slightly and pushed the door open. Inside, sitting behind her desk, was the department psychologist. As she looked up at me, I took a moment to scrutinize her, sizing her up in all possible ways. She was large in my perspective, being a moose. On the back side of middle age, she moved deliberately, and despite her size there was a certain grace a sophistication about her.
I slowly made my way to the chair she offered with a sweep of her hoof, studying as I went. As I sat down, I noticed that the whole time I was studying her, she was doing the same to me. Finally, she let out a smile that put me a bit more at ease. The smile was friendly and genuine, but it didn't hide her eyes. They were inquisitive, studying, the eyes that have witnessed and heard a million stories of tragedy and heartbreak.
"It is so nice to finally meet you Officer Wilde, my assistant told me you would be coming by today." She greeted. "I am Mrs. Yukon, but you can just call me Olivia. After all, we are friends here."
"It's nice to meet you too, Olivia. And you can just call me Nick. I'm not big on formalities." I replied.
"So I've heard. You have quite the knack for getting the chief riled up." She nodded.
I gave a small chuckle. "So how do we begin?" I ask nonchalantly.
"What do you mean?" She inquired.
"Well, do I lay on a couch and start telling you about my life story?" I asked, coming off a bit like an asshole.
Olivia just shook her head and laughed. "No that is just a stupid stereotype from movies. But if you want to lay down you may." She pointed to a couch on the wall before continuing. "But that's not really a thing."
"Ok, so how do we start?" I asked again.
"We already have." She smiled.
"We are just making small talk." I said confused.
"Exactly. We are getting to know one another." She explained, "Crazy as it sounds, this is a great start. For me to help you, I need to know you. Not your story, you. For the same reason, you need to trust me. Why would you tell anyone you didn't trust something so intimate as your inner demons and desires?"
"Clever Moose." I mumbled under my breath with a slight smirk.
"What was that dear?" Olivia asked.
"Huh? Oh nothing. I was just thinking how this is like a hustle." I said.
"I never thought of it that way. But I guess you are right. Only this is for good." She replied. "Do you think about hustling often?"
I was a bit taken off guard by the question. I wasn't expecting it, and hadn't really prepared an answer. Immediately, my calm demeanor started to collapse and I started to panic. "This is it." I thought, "This is when I say things that end up costing my job."
"It's not like that." I struggled to explain myself. "I don't think of hustling for hustling's sake, it is just what I have known longest, so I kind of use it as a frame of reference." As I finished, I prayed that it made as much sense aloud as it did in my head.
"Just relax. There is no right or wrong answer here. Just us." She told me.
"I just don't want to say something I shouldn't." I said truthfully.
"I understand that. But nothing you say leaves this room." She reassured me.
While that was comforting, I still wasn't sure about the whole thing. Luckily, she didn't press any further. Instead we spent our time talking about all manner of, what I thought, unrelated topics. We talked about my love of hockey, passion for music, the weather, how my time on the force has been, working with Judy. Before I knew it, my time was up. It seemed to fly by.
"Well, Nick. I think that is all for today." Olivia said with a smile, coming around her desk to see me to the door.
"Really? I don't feel like we accomplished anything." I asked surprised.
"Oh? In my opinion, I think we made some great progress." She countered.
"If you say so." I replied. "So, do I come back tomorrow, or what?"
"No, I don't think that will be needed. Once a week should be fine." She said. "How about every Wednesday at 1300."
I noticed it was more of a command, than a statement and just nodded my approval. Olivia opened the door for me, and shook my paw as I left. I started back to my desk and Carrots, but never made it. Instead I ran into Judy halfway down the hallway.
"Hey Slick! How was it. Did she hypnotize you and make you cluck like a chicken?" Judy joked.
"Not that I remember. But overall it went well, I think." I said falling into step beside her.
As we walked back to our desks, I filled her in on my session as she filled me in about her past hour. Evidently, she had been a busy little bunny. Not only did she make notes about our meeting, referring to Mr. Big as "informant 1", but she also began searching the internet. She apparently found several articles about paramilitary militias around the country.
As if that wasn't enough, she also still found the time to fill the Chief in on all the developments, ask for next weekend off for herself and me AND eat her sandwich. As she rattled off everything, I couldn't help but stand and gaze at her in amazement. With such energy and efficiency, it was surprising that the ZPD still had open cases.
"So, we are off next weekend?" I asked when she finished.
"Well sort of. Since we are driving desks, we don't have to be here, but the Chief wants us to spend some time working on the files. Assuming we have something to work on." Judy replied.
"Ok. Well, I can deal with that. We will just set some time aside each day to look over things." I said. As we sat back at our desks, I couldn't help but feel excited about next week.