Chapter 3: The Salvage Yard for Three

The rush of hot water rushed in, making Oliver gasp as he tried to breathe. It was too hot compared to the cold ones that Tram allowed him to shower in. This was different, and bubbles floated above him.

Jake chuckled, throwing another bucket of water on Oliver's head before squirting soap onto his paw. He ran his hands deeply into Oliver's fur.

Judging by how the two mechanics had their necks stuck out the window of the tow truck, Oliver must have been ripe foul. Jake didn't even allow him to enter the apartment and rushed straight to the bathroom. Two rinses later and a lot of scrubbing, the black goo of dirt finally stopped appearing.

"I can finally see your color better…" Jake drifted off and growled. Oliver jumped, unprepared for it and wondering if he had done something wrong. Jake smiled, shaking his head. "Sorry. I just remember something. We're almost done. But how are you feeling? Feel fresh compared to before?"

Oliver thought about it. He felt wet and dripping like a damp towel, which he hated. However, the soap's scented smell was smoky and minty, which smelled nice. Plus, Jake was not wrong, as he could see his natural light gray fur mixed with some brown at certain spots.

"What amazing patterns you have," Jake said, grabbing Oliver's hand. "Almost like you're wearing mittens and patchy eye cover."

Oliver looked at his paws and shot one of his feet up. Jake was not wrong, as the end of his parts was bleeding brown. With a slight nod, he squatted down and played with the surrounding soap. He could feel Jake stroking his head as he played around.

Both were nice toms, with Jake being the most caring and gentle. He could still remember being held by Jake, feeling warmth despite being scared out of his mind after biting Chance. Now, Chance seemed scary initially, though the angry tom seemed very lax and friendly afterward. Chance would try to talk to him as he drove them to the salvage yard. It was awkward as they could only get a nod, shake, shrug, or look from Oliver.

These toms were not kidding that they lived in the salvage yard. Mountains of scrap were everywhere, and their home hid in the middle. Oliver was still not sure how to feel about this new situation. It seemed too good to be true, but he would go with it. It's better here than freezing his tail outside.

"Alright, that should be good enough," Jake said, pulling the drain stopper. He wrapped Oliver in a towel and pulled him out towards the blower. "Hold still."

Oliver mewed as the blower blew hot air at him. Soon, his fur fluffed out, and Jake laughed. The cinnamon tom continued before grabbing a comb and brushing Oliver's fur. Then he grabbed some spray lotion that smelled like coconut, spraying Oliver around and continuing his comb.

After a while, his mews turned to purrs as Jake worked on his fur. It felt nice to be pampered like this. His boss would throw him in the shower only to avoid the looks of his guests. They weren't going to say anything for his sake, but the small conscience they had made them give Tram the side eye. The bare minimum was done when they visited.

The warmth felt cold as he remembered Tram's whips. They stung deep, and he could remember the snow leopard threatening him if he ever ran away. Those unkind words that told him he would make him regret it. He could recall Tram telling him that he better hide or run far away, or he'd remind him what happens to those who run away.

"Easy… easy, little one. You're safe here," Jake called out to him.

Oliver shivered, hearing his broken yowl better. When did he cry? He couldn't stop and felt too scared to stop. Then again, he could feel the warmth as Jake pressed him close. It felt nice, almost bringing a sense of safety. He buried himself deeper into the cinnamon tom's fur.

There was a knock at the door. Chance poked his head in with a concerned look. "Everything alright in there?"

"Oliver started yowling abruptly. Hey, I'm here, little one. We're here," Jake cooed as he brushed the back of Oliver.

Chance frowned, letting himself inside and kneeling. "Hey, kiddo. It's alright. Crud, how about I whip you some hot milk and honey?" he said as he brushed Oliver's cheek.

Oliver rested his head on Jake's shoulder. It felt so difficult to move or respond, but he gave a soft nod to Chance. It felt nice getting comforted by these two. The tabby grinned, giving one last brush before standing up.

"Alright. Hey, kitten, I've put some of my old kitten clothes in Oliver's new room," Chance said. He leaned on the sink's counter. "I just remembered that stores closed early today. I couldn't grab him something new. However, thank my ma for sending me my old clothes years ago."

Jake lifted Oliver with him as he stood. "Good thing she has a habit of keeping old things. Remember when she kept those old baseball cards you had?"

Chance looked up and exhaled. "Yeah. I'm going to miss them. However, they came in clutch at the right time."

"I'll say. Though I wish you didn't have to sell them."

Chance waved his paw, heading right down the hall. "I can live with it."

Jake smiled sadly and nodded, heading the other way towards the room. He opened the room on the right, leading them to a decent room. Chance had prepared a nice cot bed with plenty of blankets and pillows. They set two sets of clothes on top.

Putting Oliver down, Jake kneeled and patted Oliver's head. "Are you okay now?"

Oliver thought about it, feeling much better than before. He nodded his head.

"Do you want to tell me what's wrong?" Jake asked.

Oliver froze, shaking his head fast. No way was he going to talk about Tram.

"Easy, it's alright… we won't force you, but it helps to talk to someone when you are in trouble, but we will not bother you. Once you feel more confident, we will be ready to listen," Jake explained before leading Oliver to the bed. "Now, Chance gave you some nightwear to pick out. Why don't I leave you to do that? Don't worry… I'll be back. I just need to talk to Chance. Okay?"

Oliver nodded, seeing Jake leave the room and close the door behind him. He was thankful that they wouldn't ask him about his past. It surprised him how they were going to such great lengths to give him a room and bed to sleep on. The couch or the floor were his usual go-twos when sleeping in Tram's place. The cot bed was an improvement.

Shaking his head in amazement at his good fortune, he turned and stared down at the choice of clothing. There was a slightly oversized blue T-shirt with black boxers; the other was a black T-shirt with the logo 'Fly Kats' with white boxers. A tiny smile crossed his tired face as he chose the latter.

Oliver put on the clothes, feeling the soft fabric on his fur. Before he could explore the room, he heard a hard thud outside. He jumped, wondering what was going on, and approached the door. He pressed his ears to listen.

They whispered something down the hall, and he could barely make out their conversation.

"Chance, cool it!" Jake hissed.

"How can I calm down? Who does that to a…" Chance stopped, followed by some shuffling. They whispered something. "If I find out who did that, I'll break their neck."

Jake said something, almost like he agreed, but more focused on soothing Chance. They kept talking, though it was hard to hear. Oliver could listen to them making their way down the hall. He moved back and waited for them.

Soon, the door opened, and Chance and Jake appeared. Chance had a mug on his paw and a sad look on his face, though it lit up as he inspected Oliver.

"I guess you and I have the same tastes… here… something warm to drink." Chance said, attempting to hand the mug.

Oliver glanced at the paw, seeing some bruises that weren't there before. What happened? He instinctively backed up and tapped his fingers, unsure if he should take it.

Chance winced, pulling back and glancing at his injured paw. He rubbed his neck, shifting his attention to Jake. Jake gave him a reassuring look and patted his shoulder. "We watch TV till bedtime. How about it, kiddo? You must be tired but not enough to sleep yet."

Oliver thought about it and agreed with the tabby. He pointed towards the hall.

Chance chuckled. "Sounds good. I'll hand you the drink over there," he said, heading down the hall with Jake.

Oliver blinked, wondering why they didn't tell him to follow them. Maybe they were giving him space or something. It felt odd being given such freedom to decide. He poked his head out, seeing them turning into the living room. After a few moments, he followed them, tip-toeing his way there. They already turned the TV on, and he could hear the news. He poked his head again to see them relaxing on the couch, having some small conversation. They stopped, glancing at him and waiting. Oliver froze, wondering what he should do.

Neither moved, though they dearly wanted to, allowing Oliver to make the first move. Jake, however, couldn't resist saying, "It's okay, little one… you can trust Chance and me not to hurt you. We only want to help you and take care of you. Come, sit and relax… your warm milk is getting cold."

Unable to resist the cinnamon tom's gentle voice, Oliver strolled over to the couch and stared up at both toms for a long moment, then took a seat between the two. Neither tom moved, but Chance leaned slowly forward, picked up the mug, and held it patiently before Oliver.

Oliver cautiously took the mug and sniffed its contents. It smelled good, so he carefully took a sip. It tasted soothing as it went down his throat. He purred at the taste and drank it more confidently.

Jake and Chance smiled, nodding their heads before turning to the TV. They asked him if he wanted to see something specific, but he shook his head, letting them decide. Jake switched the channels until he landed on the David Litterbin show. Chance groaned, letting himself melt on the couch.

"Too bad Scaredy Kat isn't having a marathon today," Chance grumbled.

"Oh, come on, Chance. You gotta appreciate this kind of humor, too," Jake said.

The two banter playfully above him as he watches the host, David Litterbin, and his co-host, Fuzzy, do their thing. David said something, making the audience and Jake laugh. He didn't get it and drank his milk, glancing at Chance. The tabby gave him a look that shared his thought: 'I don't get it.'

The show kept going, and Oliver finished his drink. Jake grabbed it and placed it on the coffee table. Oliver yawned, feeling more tired than before, and peeked at Jake from the corner of his eye. The cinnamon tom enjoyed this show and would lose it occasionally. It was nice to see this. He felt his head drifting toward Jake's side, finding it firmer than expected but warm enough not to bother him.

It felt even better when Jake touched his head and pushed him closer.

Chance scratched his cheek, glancing at the time and then Oliver. He smiled, seeing the kitten curled up on his mate's lap. The tiny kitten seemed smaller, making him angry at thinking anyone would lay a paw or claw on him. Worst of all, the painful look that Jake gave him as he told him what he found. Whoever that kat is, they better hope he never sees them.

"Chance, it's alright," Jake whispered, grabbing his paw and rubbing it. "All we can do now is try to help him out. Creating new walls isn't going to make him feel safe."

Chance sighed, glancing around Jake towards where he had made a new hole in the wall. "I just can't believe it. Sorry for losing it, Jake. I just…"

Jake moved his paw, cupping Chance's cheek and stroking it. "I know."

Chance purred, grabbing Jake's paw and kissing it. "Thanks. I'll fix it tomorrow. We better put Oliver to bed. Give me a sec," he said, standing up and raising Oliver to his chest. The little kitten grumbled some sounds, though he settled down as Chance cradled him close. Like a gentle cloud, he moved towards the hall. "So you wanna bet the girls are going to cough a hairball tomorrow?"

"Don't doubt it," Jake said with a low chuckle. He opened the door for Chance. "Though I'm more concerned about the steps. Stray laws are gray, especially for kats like us."

Chance frowned, understanding what Jake meant. "Hopefully, Callie can help us with that part. For now, let's just deal with it as it comes."

"Roger that," Jake said before grinning and lifting the blankets. "Think you can land smoothly, hotshot?"

Chance grinned. "Piece of cake," he said, placing Oliver on the bed.

Jake placed the sheets on Oliver, stroking the kitten's cheeks before heading out with Chance. He closed the door, avoiding making any loud sounds.

Chance wrapped his arms around his mate's waist. He put his head on top of his mate's head. "So, we're really doing this?"

"Second-guessing this?"

"Me? Never. Just excited. Maybe nervous."

"Me too. Me too, Chance," Jake mumbled, rubbing his head against Chance's throat.

Chance purred with Jake, feeling his partner rub against him with different emotions. The scent of worry as they were starting something new. The smell of joy as they were finally doing something for themselves. And… he could feel the need and hunger for a partner.

"We should look at the Turbo Kat after last night's battle," Chance reasoned, though he could feel his claws already unsheathing and digging into Jake. If Jake continued, he would have to take him territorially.

"Hmm, we should," Jake muttered, rubbing himself against Chance's growing tent.

Chance hissed, leading them to their room. He nipped Jake's neck and got a soft moan. They failed to open the door until Jake focused enough to open it. Their bodies rubbed against each other, with Chance closing the door behind them. It took a few moments for Chance to shove Jake against the furniture, undoing their pants and letting them fall.

"Better bite on something, kitten," Chance warned, getting close and loosening his mate with his fingers. "I'm feeling wild today."

Jake muffled a moan, lifting his tail and burying himself into his arm. Chance bit hard into Jake's scruff.

It was going to be a long night.

Oliver yawned, lifting himself to a sitting position and rubbing his eyes. He blinked as he wondered where he was at. It wasn't the closet or the living room. It wasn't the alley. Where was he? It was a room, but he didn't recognize it.

Oh right.

The two mechanics brought him to their home and gave him this room. He must have slept during the Litterbin show. The morning had crept up, with the sun's rays entering from the window across the room. He followed them, seeing it hit the small furniture nearby. There, the necklace that Deacon put around him lay. It was pointless for him to have it now. He didn't even fight Jake when he removed it and gave it to Chance to clean. All he knew was that it was some weird necklace with a wooden rectangle. However, he couldn't throw it away as it reminded him of that nice tom. He wished he could see Deacon again.

Oliver sighed, moving the sheets away and jumping off the cot bed. His throat felt relatively dry, though he wondered if they had no problem with him going out. Chance told him not to snoop, though maybe the second floor was fine.

There was when he looked at the door and froze, unsure if he should go or stay. After much deliberation, he reached up and opened the door. He glanced at the door across from him before moving down the hall to the kitchen.

Oliver looked inside, seeing ancient equipment around. He saw commercials about new kitchen equipment, and this wasn't it; they looked like things from those old black-and-white movies. They were a bit worn down, though everything looked like someone restored them to working order.

As he stared around, he saw a hole in the wall. He wondered what happened here. He shrugged his shoulder and looked some more till he saw a slightly open cabinet with some glass. His tail flicked behind him, and he jumped on the kitchen counter. He opened the cabinet out, using the dividers to climb up.

Almost there.

"The hell?!" someone yelled out.

Oliver panicked, missing his reach and letting go, feeling himself fall. Something crashed beneath him, and footsteps dashed toward him. Within a second, he felt himself being caught by powerful arms.

Chance had a severe look on his face, wincing as he looked down and hissed. Oliver took one glass out, and it broke on the floor, causing it to break.

Oliver could swear, his blood turning white. It took one day, and he had already given them a reason to kick him out. Maybe the tabby was going to him a 'good one' before it happened. He shivered and closed his eyes, ready to feel a slash or hit.

There was a touch, but it felt relatively soft than a hit. When Oliver reopened his eyes, there was no fury in the tabby's eyes. "You okay, kiddo?" Chance said, stroking Oliver's cheek.

Oliver stayed still, watching the tabby shift them away. Chance put him down before inspecting his feet.

"Hmm, thankfully, not too deep. Oliver, go to the bathroom and grab the white medkit. It's underneath the sink's cabinet," Chance said, resting his injured feet on his other leg. He cocked an eyebrow and gently tapped Oliver's back. "Kiddo, relax. I'm not mad. Just go get it. Okay?"

Oliver snapped out of his confusion and nodded. He hurried towards the bathroom and back with the small medkit. Chance thanked him and used some pliers to remove the small chunks of glass. Some tiny hisses escaped his lip and then some when he applied ointment, wrapping it up.

Chance looked up as he finished. "Oliver, next time, just knock on our door or something. You could have hurt yourself. Crud, thankfully you didn't, and I got you on time," he said, finishing his wrapping. Settling the medkit aside, he frowned and patted Oliver's head. "Okay, okay, I'm a little mad, but jeez, ease up. Go watch some TV while I whip us some breakfast."

It felt like someone figuratively whipped him as Oliver stared at Chance. The tabby grabbed a broom and dustpan, cleaning up Oliver's mess. Chance made a couple of faces, though he didn't seem to mind after a while as he placed his feet on the floor. Once he finished, he turned to look at Oliver with a confused look.

"Everything alright?" Chance said.

Oliver felt something pull on him inside, hurrying to Chance's leg and hugging it. Fear overwhelmed him, and he let out a cry. How could Chance just brush it off? It didn't make sense. The tabby should at least hit him to make it make sense.

"Oliver, it's okay. Jeez, kid, I should be the one crying here," Chance joked. He rubbed his head and patted Oliver's head with the other hand. "Oliver, look at me."

Oliver sniffed, taking a shaky breath and looking up at the tabby. Chance smiled, lowering his big arm and stopping it near Oliver.

"Climb up," Chance said.

Oliver grabbed on, feeling a quick rush of air as Chance quickly picked him up. The tabby made some airplane noise, swinging him around while lowering and raising his arm. Seeing the big tabby like this made him giggle, and holding on as Chance picked up speed made him laugh.

"Tsk. Tsk. Rogue One. Do you copy? Over," Chance said, changing the pitch of his voice. He pointed with his chin to Oliver and winked.

Oliver frowned, wishing he could say something, but let out a sound in his throat. He blushed as it sounded broken.

"Affirmative, you're clear to land," Chance said, leading them to the living room. He made a slight jerk before simulating a shaky landing. "Rogue One, you're coming too hot. Pull up and try again," he said before throwing Oliver up.

Oliver squealed, feeling the rush and being caught again by Chance. It felt scary and fun at the same time. Chance chuckled, taking them down to the couch.

"Nice job, Rogue One. Fuel up and be ready for the next mission," Chance said, laughing. He brushed his head against Oliver before placing him on the side. Grabbing the remote, he clicked it on before handing it to Oliver. "Alright, alright, now just enjoy some TV while I make us some pancakes."

Oliver touched Chance's hand.

"Hmm? Something up, kiddo?"

Oliver thought about it, pointing at the kitchen and pretending to drink something.

"You thirsty? Oh, right! You were getting a glass. Milk, orange, or water…"

Oliver pointed at Chance when hearing water.

"Alright. Just stay here, and I'll get you some water," Chance said, giving Oliver a brush on the head before going back to the kitchen.

It didn't take long for Chance to return and hand him a glass of water. Oliver drank it and handed it back. Chance smiled, telling him he'd had breakfast ready in a few.

Oliver watched Chance go, feeling less worried but a bit confused. He shook his head, smiling at the gentle giant for being so friendly. The little fun reminded him how much he wanted it to happen to him when he'd seen those movies with kids and their fathers. It felt so good, nearly making him forget his troubles. Maybe this was his moment? Perhaps these two were serious about keeping him? His heart leaped, wondering if he would experience everything he'd seen on the TV.

With that, Oliver smiled and turned his attention to the TV nearby. Some commercial was playing for a new gadget for the home before turning into the news. The anchors did their usual greetings, with the first story being about a death near a construction. He frowned, hating seeing this, and was about to change channels till he saw a brief image of his boss's mug shot.

"We're here live at the new commercial tower with the worker that found the body," Ann Gora said, putting the mic close to the terrified worker. "Sir, what can you tell us about the incident?"

"Not much, I'm afraid. Crud, what a mess. Not how I wanted to finish this week and go to the holidays next week," a burly light cream Kat said, rubbing his temple. His name flashed beneath him, showing his name as Paul Scar. "I just come in and do my thing. Poor bastard landed where I was supposed to work this morning."

"Must have been shocking. I heard some whispers that there were some signs of foul play," Ann said, digging deeper into the case.

Paul nodded, crossing his arms. "You bet. Whomever it was, they threw him from the third-highest level. It was difficult to see, but I identified ropes around his arm and the remains of a chair. Damn, not a way someone should go. Sorry, I think… I just don't want to be here," he said with a shiver. He shook his head and headed off.

Ann Gora nodded, turning her attention to the camera. "Well folks, this marks the end of notorious seller Tram Mewller. However, as one chapter closes, another opens up. Who killed Mewller? Rival gangs? Another player? Inside fallout? Who knows? However, Kats Eye News will keep…"

Oliver jerked as the channel changed. He looked to see a concerned Jake.

"You okay?" Jake said, brushing Oliver's face. "Something the matter?"

Oliver noticed his fur was standing up, and he was shivering. He wanted to speak so badly and tell the nice tom everything. However, even though Tram was dead, he could still feel his eyes looking at him. He shook his head and hugged Jake. Despite everything, he didn't want Tram to die and wondered if whoever killed him was after him.

"Aw, I wished I got here sooner. Such a terrible thing to hear," Jake said, pulling him close.

"Everything okay?" Chance said, reappearing from the kitchen and wiping his paw. "Did something happen?"

"Oliver saw the morning news. Not exactly a heartfelt story," Jake said, shaking his head and looking down. He blinked and squinted. "What happened to your feet?"

"Let's just say we have a very adventurous kid in our hands," Chance said, sitting close and kissing Jake on the head. He glanced down. "Damn, it must have been an awful story. Oliver, it's okay. Things… happen in the world… sometimes they aren't so bright and shiny. Let's not worry about things that don't involve us."

Oliver wished he could tell him otherwise. However, seeing the concerned looks they were giving him, he attempted to push his fears down. He released one big breath, hoping things didn't follow him here. With a nod, he raised his arm at Chance, wishing to forget what he saw.

Chance grinned, lifting him. "There we go. Come on, Rogue One. We have a dangerous mission ahead of us. We must defeat the evil pancakes. Load your syrup and hold on. It's going to be a bumpy ride."

Jake snorted, looking away and covering his mouth. "You're such a dork."

"Takes one to know one," Chance said, putting his tongue out. Jake got close and kissed him. Chance purred and rubbed his face against his partner.

Oliver giggled, making a yucky face. They were some funny kats.

"Why are you making a face?" Jake said, pretending to look offended. He got close and nuzzled Oliver.

Oliver purred, feeling the warmth as Chance held him and Jake nuzzled him. He would trade everything to stay like this if he could always feel like this. He didn't want to lose this.

"Come on, you two. Let's eat. Nobody likes a cold pancake," Chance said, leading them to the kitchen.

Jake wished he could have gone with them to buy new clothes. He'd made Oliver some temporary shorts to hold him till Chance bought him some decent ones. However, they needed to finish up these cars by this week. It will dry of customers next week because of the week-long holiday.

"Shit, I forgot," Jake grumbled, remembering he promised to go to his parent's house with Chance.

Correction: his nosey sister begged him and their parents to come together for the first day of the holiday. He wished he could just stick with the Furlongs the whole week this year. Being around those who aren't ready to nitpick sounded so much better. Then again, Chance didn't seem thrilled to be near his brother.

"I guess we have problems with our own family," Jake mumbled. "Wait… damn, those three are going to start something when they see Oliver."

"Whose Oliver?" a voice called out.

Jake jerked up, banging his head against the car's hood. He felt tense, ready to fight, until he saw the girls looking at him.

"I warned you not to startle him," Felina admonished Callie. She wore a black jacket, white shirt, dog tags, and tight jeans. She sighed and waved. "Ease up, soldier. It's just us."

Callie gave an apologetic look. "Sorry about that, Jake," she said. She wore her usual clothing with a fluffy coat. A large bag dangles in her hand. "Here. Happy late-birthday."

Jake grinned, feeling foolish for getting ready to throw down with the mayor. He rubbed his head and approached them, grabbing the bag and looking. Inside, he found a good quantity of wraps as he dug inside. He looked playful at the girls, who seemed to enjoy his search. That's when he felt a tiny box. He pulled it out, looking like a plain old box. Opening it, he felt a rush of shock come to him as he saw two tickets read 'The David Littetbin Show.'

"Shit!" Jake blurted out, feeling like he was floating. He shook his head and felt a ping of guilt holding them. "Aw, you two really shouldn't…"

"Nope. You are going to have fun. I don't want to hear the usual spiel out of you. We're your friends!" Callie snapped, pouting and putting her hands on her side.

"I'll beat you if you do," Felina said with a firm look.

Jake wished Chance was here. Two against one was so unfair. He loved the gift but could never see himself affording something the same level to give to them. He sighed, swallowing his guilt and nodding.

"Good and…" Callie paused, blinking before squinting. She put her hand on her mouth and squealed. "Is that what I think it is?"

"What is… oh," Jake said, looking at the bonding bracelet. He chuckled and nodded. "Yeah, custom-made by Chance."

"Impressive," Felina said, whistling at it. She and Callie approach Jake, both inspecting. "Are those… wow, color me more impressed. He's a keeper, alright."

Jake blushed, nodding his head. He loved it. "Thanks. I can't wait till we make it official legally."

"We can't wait. Those Furlongs are going to throw a big party," Felina said, sighing and pinching the bridge of her nose. "Please try to convince Mama Furlong not to go all out. Don't want to shut it down if it gets too wild."

Jake gave a worried chuckle, remembering the last incident. Someone flipped a car that day. The Furlongs were big tabbies who knew how to party and never shied from showing the world why tabby kats are wild. They used any excuse to throw a big party, and they are…

"Oh, crud. They might go wild sooner," Jake muttered, feeling like they prepared a bomb.

"How so?" Felina said, cocking an eyebrow.

Jake gave a sheepish smile, glancing at Callie. "How well-versed are you in Stray Laws?"

Callie blinked, tilting her head. "Pretty good, why? Thinking about having a little one sometime?"

"We're not really in the thinking phase anymore," Jake revealed.

Callie and Felina's confused expressions changed to stunned surprise, then pure joy. They rushed at him, asking him the basic questions. Jake chuckled, leading them inside for a cup of coffee. He mentioned how they met Oliver in the mall as they talked about it. He didn't shy away from hiding the details, getting shocked and angry when they heard what he found on the kit's back. However, they smiled upon hearing the small steps they were taking.

Callie waved her hands to calm them down. "Okay. Okay. Apart from being excited, we should talk about the legalities. There's the other parts we need to focus on. The assigned caseworker will do many rounds and visits to ensure you two are fit to care for him. Most want kids to have a place to live, especially with the outrageous amount of orphans in the system, but some caseworkers are very picky. I'll be honest. I hope you guys get lucky, or it will be a long fight. You should safety-proof everything that could be a potential danger and thoroughly clean the living quarters."

"We'll lend a paw with remodeling the area financially," Felina interrupted, glancing around. "Plus, we should…"

"Woah. Hold on. I can't ask you guys to do that. Just give me and Chance the low down, and we'll handle it," Jake said. There was no way he was going to accept that. They meant well, but it didn't feel right.

Callie and Felina looked at each other before turning back to Jake.

"Denied," they both said before continuing their conversation.

"Maybe if we add some nice oak floors there. Change in windows," Felina said, pointing around.

Callie nodded. "Definitely new lights. The kitchen and bathroom need an upgrade."

Jake felt shocked. Did they just blow him off? He shook his head. "Girls, I mean it. Me and Chance couldn't…"

"You two are family," Callie said, giving a wan smile. "These past years solidify it. Please stop being a proud tom and let us help the two of you. If we swapped shoes, you would do the same thing for us. No?"

Jake wanted to argue, though he felt something stuck in his throat. Revealing their secret brought them much closer than before. He and Chance had only had each other until that tense day. Dark Kat almost had them and the city, though they stopped him in time. A lot of things changed that day. As he stared at his friends… no, his family, he felt tears swelling. He sniffed and rubbed his eyes, nodding his head.

Callie and Felina got close and hugged him. He accepted them and let out a shaky breath. "Thank you. Thank you for being the best she-kats around. I swear I'll…"

Both snorted, pulling back and patting his shoulder.

"It's okay. Just stop using that big brain of yours and just let us," Callie whispered.

Felina nodded, giving a soft punch to his chest. "Honestly, you are the wife in this relationship."

Jake laughed.

"Felina!" Callie shouted.

"What? He laughed," Felina said, shrugging.

Callie shook her head and grinned. "Can't wait to meet the little one."

Jake nodded, wondering how Chance was doing.

Chance tapped his toes, wondering what was taking Oliver so long to try things out. "You good in there?"

Two taps on the dressing room door. Yes. Chance sighed, wondering if he should have been in the garage. Then again, the look that Jake gave him told him that he was not in the mood for him to experiment on the customers' cars. He couldn't help it, always striving to go beyond and produce a better vehicle for their customer… even if the cars sometimes blew up.

"Eh. We always fix them on time," Chance reasoned, remembering how a simple brake change turned into a mission. He laughed, remembering how their customers looked somewhat dumbfounded when they felt the car being different. They always played dumb, never revealing they went ten extra miles. It helped their business as word of mouth always brought new customers for the magician fixers to fix their rust buckets.

"Chance, is that you?" a soft voice called behind him.

Chance felt tense, recognizing the voice as it scolded him many times. He already planned how to break the news, but the kats above had a unique plan. He could feel his throat getting warm, knowing this sweet she-kat would rip him a new one.

"Hey, Mama," Chance squeaked, turning around.

Freya Furlong is an amber fur tabby with distinct orange stripes. She always carried a severe look, though not because she was angry but because that was her neutral face. He could recall his late dad sharing how his mother terrified him, thinking he upset her on their first date. However, she was sweet and caring, though she had a temper when upset.

Freya's green eyes looked at him, squinting hard. She sighed, getting close and smacking Chance's head.

"Crud! What was that for?" Chance asked.

Freya waved her finger at him. "You have a look that tells me you did something. It better not be drugs or something, or I will cut your tail."

"Mama, I'm old enough to decide things," Chance muttered, though pulled back as his mother ready another smack. "I'm not doing drugs. Jeez, nothing bad. Just wanted to tell you something later than sooner…"

Freya made a look before reaching in and lifting his paw. "Aw, did you give sweet Jake his bracelet already? It looks nice."

Chance smiled and nodded. He glanced down, seeing his mother was not alone. "Jonathan! It's been a while. How's my favorite little nephew doing?"

The young white tabby grinned, nodding his head. "Yep, getting big every year," he said, sticking his chest out with pride.

Chance grinned, spreading his arms so Jonathan could jump on him. This kitten was the only thing he liked about his only brother. His brother was a pain in the tail, and his wife was such a snooty bitch. It surprised him they could make such a friendly young kitten. Maybe they proved that two negatives make a positive.

"You being good? Standing up for the little ones?" Chance said, nuzzling the kit.

Jonathan smiled but stopped, looking down and appearing ashamed. He whispered, "I try, Uncle Chance. But Mama told me not to help this stray kitten because he could have fleas or something."

Chance hid his disgust, already imagining different scenarios in his head. That she-kat was all image. Thankfully, she cared for Jonathan in her twisted way. He could remember when they legally switched their last names to Furlington without a second thought. Furlong sounded just too ferocious and was not elegant. Then again, he could only glare at his brother that day as he made Freya look so defeated. Richard just couldn't help it, wanting to distance himself from his origin from his high-class friends. Chance and his three younger sisters gave a piece of their mind when alone with their brother. It's too bad Richard only kept his Furlong stubbornness.

"It's alright. As long as you try, that's all that matters," Chance whispered, seeing Freya give them a curious look. No way would he want his mother to hear this. Although strong, she's still a mother who could be hurt. Plus, he fought his urge to call Jonathan's mom so many things. There is no point in making his nephew or mother upset.

"Is the little guy dressing up? Hey, Jake, it's me," Freya shouted, getting close to the door. She chuckled. "You and Chance should come over so I can feed your thin body."

Chance cursed himself, forgetting for a moment why he was here. "Um, Mama, there's something I need to…"

The door opened with Oliver poking his head out and freezing up. His eyes shifted from Freya to Chance.

"Oh? Sorry, little one. I thought you were…" Freya started till Jonathan gasped.

"Uncle Chance! Uncle Chance, that's the kitten I tried helping!" Jonathan said, jumping out of Chance's arm. He rushed at Oliver, stopping near and jumping up and down like the seven-year-old he was. "I'm so happy you're okay. You look cleaner than before. Did someone help you? Are you with someone?"

Oliver ducked his head, dropping the clothes on the ground and rushing around Jonathan. He bolted towards Chance's arms, pushing himself deep and shivering. A broken mew escaped him, and his tiny paws grasped Chance's shirt.

"Oliver, relax, will you? Crud," Chance hissed as Oliver clawed at him. He winced, pushing the kit close and stroking the little head. The kid smelled like fear. "Oliver, they mean you no harm. This is my mother, Freya, and my nephew, Jonathan."

Oliver shook his head and refused to let go.

Jonathan's ears folded, and he turned to his grandmother with a sad look. "Did I do something wrong?"

Freya snapped out of her look, kneeling momentarily to brush Jonathan's fur. She shook her head and smiled before getting back up and approaching Chance.

Chance frowned, seeing his mother give him a look. "Mama, please don't be angry. I was going to tell you when I could."

"Hush, my stupid kit," Freya said, kneeling again and focusing on Oliver. "We'll talk back in the salvage yard. But for now, my new grandson needs me. Hold him close and purr; don't think negatively; only send a positive scent to calm him."

Chance nodded, thinking about everything that made him happy - Jake, the Turbo Kat, his mother, comics, and Scaredy Kat. He closed in and let out a purr, letting Oliver feel everything as he felt the kid's fear. It hurt to feel it, but he pushed through and ignored it. Soon, he could feel it dissipating and Oliver releasing his claws. The kit let out a broken mew, and he lifted the kit, seeing his watery eyes.

"Aw, little buddy, you got too overwhelmed with everything. Just know you have me and Jake now. Okay?" Chance said, nuzzling Oliver's head.

Oliver nodded, wrapping his arms around Chance's neck. Despite still feeling scared, he glanced at the two other kats.

Freya sighed, smiling and giving a quick wave. "Such a cute little kitten. Hmm, Jonathan, how about we grab some more clothes for the little one?"

Jonathan nodded his head. "Sure, Grandma."

"Hey, Mama, it's fine. We don't…" Chance stopped once Freya glared at him. He licked his lips and nodded. "Glad you can help."

Freya rolled her eyes and shook her head. "I'm glad that you agree."

Chance sighed, watching his mother and Jonathan go about the store. Oliver shifted in his arm, and he helped him get around. The kitten had his feet on each side and held onto Chance's head, resting his head on top.

"I wonder how Jake is doing. Do you think he's doing better than us?" Chance whispered. He felt three taps. "Maybe? Hmm… you're right."