Chapter 8: The Brightest Days and the Looming Threats

Chance was feeling sick and had the urge to get hit in the face to end his misery, even though he knew it might take a while. He glanced at his boyfriend for support, but Jake signaled him to keep his eyes forward. Chance nodded and returned his gaze to his mother, who had stopped pacing and was looking around.

Freya was initially happy when she thought they were just asking for her to babysit Oliver when they were 'busy.' But when she realized they weren't talking about the garage, she became quiet and listened carefully. Chance and Jake shared every detail about their vigilante work, including how they started, why they did it, and how they did it. Callie and Felina eventually found out about their secret work, but this time, they had a choice to reveal it. Chance wondered if Jake felt the same mixed emotions he did - both liberated and hurtful - as they opened up about their secret lives to someone else.

"Uh, mama," Chance whispered. He licked his lips. "You, okay?"

With one hand raised, Freya told him to shut up. She kept her eyes moving until she shut them and exhaled. "Somehow, a part of me knew."

Chance turned to his mate, who shrugged, then back to his mother. "What do you mean?"

"Down these mean skies, a kat must fly. Doesn't that ring a bell?" Freya said. She closed her sweater and looked at the sky with a reminiscing look. "I was up when the Swat Kats took down Chop Shop. When T-Bone said that, something scratched my head. Kinda playing it dangerously if you repeat something your father used to say," she said, smiling and pulling her hair back. "Then it made me think about how odd those two heroes had the exact figure and coloring as you two boys. As I kept stepping back, I thought how stupid I was for not seeing it. Maybe I wanted to deny it since you never told me. My baby used to tell me everything from when he wet the bed to when he hurt himself. Then again, you aren't a baby anymore, Chance. You are a grown tom with his kitten."

Chance could see tears falling even though Freya kept looking away. He winced, approached his mother from behind, pulled her close, and, with a nuzzle, kissed and brushed his head against her, feeling his tears coming out. "Mama, I'm still your baby. That will never change. I'm sorry for not telling you. Sometimes, I wanted to tell you everything, though I thought I would just disappoint you."

Freya spun around and cupped Chance's cheek, resting her head against his. "Honey. I'm not disappointed in you. Damn it, anything but that. I'm pissed for you lying to me all these years, but I'm proud of you and your mate," she said, pulling a bit to look at Jake. "You two do a lot of good for this city."

Jake beamed, bashfully scratching his furry cheeks. "Thank you. I know it's asking a lot, but—"

Freya raised a paw and nodded. She wiped her eyes and looked at them. "Understood. However, we need to rope in Pops." She stopped and pointed a claw at Chance's face. "Before you give me that look, Chance, we can trust him. He's been there for you and us Furlongs when your father passed away. I'm not saying to tell every soul, but tell the ones you need support from. I can't disappear on Pops when the Swat Kats are required. That's not fair to him, and I would rather not get into arguments with him because I can't talk to him about why I need to go to the salvage yard in the middle of the night."

Chance was experiencing conflicting emotions, but Jake seemed indifferent and spoke on behalf of both of them. "We respect that. Gosh, our circle of who knows about us is getting bigger. Huh, buddy?"

Giving up, Chance couldn't convince his mate and mother. He grinned, curious about Pops' reaction. "You're right. Pops is my old man, and he should know."

Freya furrowed her brows, crossed her arms, and gave them a stern look. "Wait. How many kats know about you two?"

"Once Pops knows, then it'll be four," Chance said, raising all his fingers from one paw. He wiped his eyes and brushed off the tears. "Cal and Felina know about us. However, that's another story for another day."

Though appearing like she wanted to know, Freya nodded. "Alright. Wow, what a way to start the week! It still feels unreal if I think about it. Your father would've been proud of you, Chance."

Chance was happy to hear about his father, Edward Furlong, who was a golden-furred tom, not a tabby. Their family name, Furlong, remained the same, as his father never had a proper last name. When he married Chance's mother, Eddy adopted her last name, and he never talked much about his past, having grown up in the foster care system. Eddy was a big kat, smaller than Freya, with broad shoulders, and he loved spending time goofing around and playing with kats. Despite his love for drinking, he had a beer belly but could hold his liquor. Eddy was an enforcer pilot who swept Freya – the strong, no-nonsense, and easily irritable she-kat - off her feet, as his father used to say.

"Hey, I'll be heading in and tucking our little guy in," Jake said. He rubbed Chance's arm and signaled to them towards the door. Luna appeared and closed the door behind her as she walked towards them. "Plus, I think she wants you two to hear whatever she says before anyone else."

Chance briefly felt Jake's lips on his as he purred and made a soft noise before pulling away. Jake then nodded to Freya and returned to the house, passing by Luna and greeting her before entering. Luna then approached them, looking at them and raising an eyebrow.

"Did I miss something?" Luna said.

Freya dismissed it with a head shake: "I'm just feeling so happy that my boy is finally becoming a dad. Our family is getting bigger each year. Your other sisters are bringing those numbers up. Hope is showing, and Jamie looks ready to burst. I'm so excited!"

A bright grin appeared on Luna, getting close and jabbing Chance's side. "Still can't believe it. You just need to tie the knot, and you'll be set. So, watcha thinking? Ceremony, or go to city hall and get it over with?"

"Ah, nothing that simple. Maybe a minimal ceremony and a small party," Chance said. He rubbed his head. Despite his desire to go over it further, Callie had warned them to do it soon, as it would help with the social worker. "Crud. We need to do it soon."

Luna poked Chance's nose. "Way ahead of you. We, the sisters of the night, have been pulling some drunk nights, getting things set up for you two. Tell us when you need to pull the trigger, and we'll get you a place, a minister, a band, and enough booze and alcohol to keep all the Furlongs happy."

Chance hissed, moving his sister away and massaging his nose. "And how much is that going to cost?"

"Don't you worry, that little head of yours," Luna said. She put a paw on her chest. "We have plenty of strings to pull."

"Wait," Chance said, squinting his eyes. He let out a chuckle and crossed his arms. "Sisters of the night? Who came up with that?"

"Don't be a hater," Luna said. She frowned and huffed. "So, when?"

Chance was hesitant, but he knew his sisters were just as stubborn as he was. He worried they would insist on doing it anyway if he said no. Callie and Felina were already taking care of their living quarters and paying for everything, and Jake had tried to say no, but he was no match for them. It felt strange to Chance, as he was supposed to be the big brother who supported his sisters, not the other way around. Suddenly, he felt his mother's paw on his shoulder.

"Remember, we Furlongs support each other no matter what. Suck in that pride of yours and make that cinnamon tom the happiest kat," Freya said.

Chance exhaled, feeling worn down. "Alright. However, let's talk about it next month."

Luna and Freya grinned and nodded, sharing a glance and putting their thumbs up.

"Jeez, mom. You too?" Chance said, feeling bamboozled.

"I'll call them and get a day for us to meet with them," Luna said, ignoring Chance.

Freya nodded. "Oh, my boy is getting married!"

Chance smiled, grateful for his loving family. But he remembered why they were there and coughed to get the girls' attention from their planning.

"So, what did you have to tell us, Luna?" Chance asked.

Luna's smile became softer as she rubbed her neck and looked around. Although happy, she seemed less confident than before as she glanced at those around her. After taking a deep breath, she closed her eyes and appeared to be counting before finally opening them again.

"You two know I'm with someone?" Luna asked. She rubbed her neck. "We're beyond a couple. We have been mates for a year and some months already. Though, I've been a friend to him for a long time. I met him at work."

Freya and Chance looked at each other before looking back and nodding.

"At first, I didn't think I would fall for him, though the more I looked and understood him, the more I fell for him. He's brave, strong, cares about the city, and would do anything to protect the ones he loves." She stopped, holding herself close and closing her eyes. "I thought I could never trust another... after what," she paused and looked at the ground. After shivering for a moment, she looked up with confidence. "But I did. I want him to be a part of my life. He makes me feel safe and warm. I want you guys to be okay with it. With him, I mean."

Chance glanced at his mother, mirroring her expression of confusion and concern. They were both unsure about the identity of the mysterious "kat" their sister was referring to. It was not like she was dating Dark Kat or something. Despite the uncertainty, he was determined to support his sister no matter who she was seeing.

"Oh, come on, sis. It's us. We're here for you," Chance said.

"That's... the problem... it's you two. You already have a negative opinion of him. I understand why, and I wouldn't say I liked his guts until I got to know him. He's not a bad kat," Luna expressed. She put her hands together. "Just promise me you won't do anything or go on a rampage."

Okay, now I'm getting concerned, Chance thought. He was unsure who this kat could be, as his mate's plan of uplifting was becoming less likely based on Luna's behavior towards him. Although he and his mother had particular problems with some enforcers, knowing they knew him and didn't like him didn't shorten the list. The issues ranged from basic things like smell to outright jackasses. As he looked at his mother's face, Freya seemed puzzled. She rubbed her head, trying to process all the information until her eyes suddenly widened in realization.

"Luna, what's his name?" Freya let out, though it sounded like she knew who it was. Her eyes got sharper, and she seemed ticked off.

"Mom. Please. Don't get angry," Luna said. Despite her appearance of being ready to shrink away, she stood her ground while her paws trembled. "I love him."

Freya emitted a slight hiss while rubbing her face and then slowly nodded. Chance felt he was in unfamiliar territory and wished he knew who was causing his mother's anger. His sister looked at him to ensure he wouldn't react when she revealed the kat's name. He simply nodded and held his breath, anticipating whatever was causing his mother's frustration.

"Ulysses Feral," Luna said in a soft but audible tone.

Chance felt disoriented as if someone had slapped him. He was convinced he'd misheard her and thought she meant another cat with the same name. There's no way the sourpuss was sleeping with his sister. The idea of that asshole touching his sister and making love to her made him feel queasy in the stomach and confused. Then everything collided inside, though he couldn't do anything but stare at the floor. This felt worse than telling his mother his secret.

"I see," Freya said. He saw his mother walking past Luna and entering the house. She didn't stop there but went to the phone in the hallway and dialed some numbers. After a brief conversation, she ended the call and dialed another number, presumably trying to locate someone.

"Who is she calling at this hour?" Luna said, watching from outside. She turned back to Chance. "Brother?"

"Hmm? Oh. I think she's—"

"YOU SON OF A BITCH!" Freya roared.

Oliver felt something wet between his ears and hissed, trying to push the face away. He heard Jake chuckling before getting nuzzled in the cheeks. When he opened his eyes, he meowed his disapproval at being woken up so early. The cinnamon tom said nothing but picked him up from the bed. Chance grumbled in his sleep and shifted towards the wall.

Jake was always the first one to wake up. He would wake Oliver up and get them ready for the day. They followed a routine like clockwork. First, they went to the bathroom to brush their teeth and comb their bushy fur.

After splashing water on his face, Oliver awoke and followed Jake out of the bathroom.

The two in the garage started the morning by practicing sign language during breakfast. Jake was good at preparing cereal but not so much at other things. The cinnamon tom was more mature and interested in learning new things than Chance. He taught Oliver how to take care of plants in the garage. Chance would wake up an hour later and always looked tired despite sleeping longer. He would walk around in his boxers, scratching his chest under his tank top. Chance cooked for them and tried to add some fun when they were bored. Whether they wrestled or played an old arcade game, Chance always ensured Oliver was having fun.

Today was unusual, as they were not at the salvage yard. As they walked towards the living room, Oliver heard Jonathan's laughter, the wacky sound effects, and his cousin slapping his knee. Jonathan stopped focusing on the TV, saying 'good morning' to them as they approached. Jake asked them if they wanted cereal, to which they both nodded.

It felt odd.

Sometimes, it's still hard for Oliver to believe he's here. Just half a week ago, he had no friends or decent clothes and was constantly being attacked. His pessimistic side makes him expect someone to pull the rug from under him. However, the hope he has tells him that this is real.

As Jake and the kids settled on the couch, Jake kept glancing up the stairs, appearing pensive as if he was waiting for big news. Tapping Jake's arm, Oliver got his attention. 'Okay?'

Jake smiled and nodded. "It's nothing. I'm just waiting for your pa. Anyway, ready to meet the rest of your aunties and uncles?"

Oliver made a so-so wave. Yesterday, Freya's brothers were too much. They seemed like okay tabbies, though he didn't know them enough to trust them.

Jake patted Oliver's head. "Don't worry. All these tabbies mean well. You can trust them."

As Chance descended the stairs, they creaked heavily. He looked annoyed and glanced back up before exhaling and continuing. Jake approached and whispered something to his mate before they headed towards the kitchen. A slight gasp was heard moments later, and Chance shushed him to keep it down as they continued to whisper.

"I wonder what they are talking about?" Jonathan said. His eyes remained on the TV as his ears perked up to listen. With another spoonful of cereal, he chewed on it. "Kind of hard to hear. Maybe they are talking about something grown-up related?"

Before Oliver could respond, the doorbell rang, and he felt Jonathan pull him towards the hallway.

"Come on. It's probably our aunts and uncles! I can't wait to introduce you to them," Jonathan said. When Oliver pulled back, he looked over his shoulder with a confident smile. "Don't worry. They're good kats."

Oliver felt somewhat at ease, though he felt his lingering fears creeping near his toes. With a large breath, he nodded, letting Jonathan lead them to the door.

"Besides," Jonathan said. He reached for the doorknob and twisted it. "They're not that scary."

As the door opened, a giant appeared with a harsh glare and a frown. Oliver noticed even Jonathan froze up from the corner of his eye. Both of them never expected to stand face-to-face with the commander of the enforcers. The brown tom was infamous among his criminal caretaker and friends, who called him nasty names. Brick Face. Asshole. Giant Pussy. However, they said it confidently while watching Feral on the TV, but Oliver doubted they would ever say it to his face. They also mentioned that his chin was probably all fur or fake.

Feral looked around until his eyes met theirs. He winced and awkwardly smiled, kneeling down and coughing with embarrassment. "Happy Holidays. Um... I'm sorry. Is your grandma around or an adult I can speak to?"

The previous words of Tram's criminal buddies still lingered in Oliver's brain. Ignoring his fear, he absentmindedly reached up and patted the chin. It was real! Who would have known! He giggled, poking it some more. As he kept prodding, he felt his one leg losing balance and sending him towards the side. He felt a firm paw holding onto him instead of the hard ground.

"Woah, easy there, kid," Feral said. He lifted Oliver up and stared at him. A small smile appeared on the brown kat's face as he used his other paw to rub his chin, appearing lost on what to say. His ears perked up, making him glance and return to his scowl. "I can feel your daggers from here, Furlong."

"Mind letting go of my kid?" Chance said. He took a step forward, with Jake following closely behind, looking annoyed.

"Your kid?" Feral said. His golden eyes expressed complete bewilderment, narrowing before shifting towards Chance and Jake. An understanding look appeared on him before he gently lowered Oliver to the ground. "I see. Congrats to the both of you."

Jake nodded at Feral while Chance remained silent. Oliver and Jonathan moved closer to Jake's legs when the cinnamon tom signaled them with a wave. There was tension between the two big toms as they stared at each other with disdain. Chance stood between them, looking at Feral as if he were a stranger wandering into the nest. Oliver was puzzled, wondering what had happened between Feral, Jake, and Chance. However, he couldn't help but keep his eyes on the tabby, who was angrier than he had ever seen him before. The usually grinning and joking cat was nowhere to be found, which terrified him. Oliver reached for Chance's enormous sandy paw, tugging at it to get his attention. Chance broke off his stare with Feral and focused on Oliver. His flames simmered, and his eyes softened before he kneeled down to rub Oliver's neck.

"Let's head to the living room and wait for them there," Chance said. As he picked up Oliver, he turned to his mate. "Kitten, mind making us some coffee?"

"Sure. How do you prefer your coffee, Feral?" Jake said.

"I'll take mine black, thank you," Feral said.

Jake nodded and walked towards the kitchen while the others followed Chance into the living room. There was little conversation as they sat down, with Feral taking a chair in the corner. Upon closer inspection, it was odd to see the commander out of uniform, wearing a dark blue quarter-zip sweater, a white button-up shirt, matching pants, and a belt. Unlike how Oliver had seen him on TV, Feral seemed out of place and uncertain. During interviews, Feral appeared confident and never wavered when the media questioned his authority. However, they were all at a loss, unsure what to do while Scaredy Kat played, and the usually talkative tabbies were silent.

Fortunately, the uncomfortable silence was interrupted by Jake's arrival in the living room. He placed three mugs of hot beverages on the coffee table before handing them out. After sitting next to Chance, he shifted his attention from his mate to Feral. He took a sip of his drink before clearing his throat.

"How are things going?" Jake said. Both toms blinked, moving their attention from whatever they were looking at. When Feral didn't answer, Jake continued. "The enforcers are doing better. Hopefully, Callie can finally put this city on track."

Humming in agreement, Feral scratched his chin. "The city is in better hands under her leadership." He exhaled, letting his resting feet off his other leg and putting it down. "I only wished she did it sooner. Then I wouldn't have to deal with that coward Manx or the headaches when getting proper funds."

"I'll say. Manx had his ups, though primarily downs. I'll give him credit. He was utterly tenacious when he hunted for investors. Megakat Tower is finally making money for the city," Jake said. Feral let out a defeated groan, to which he responded with a grin.

"Please don't remind me of that. So many incidents with different omegas. Sometimes, I thought Manx's endeavor was a curse and would destroy the city's economy. That is the one time I was glad to be proven wrong."

"Huh? Didn't think you could admit you could be wrong," Chance said sourly. His eyes watched his cup before him before shooting a glare.

Feral eyes harden, ready to reply, until Jake nudges Chance with his elbow. A tiny grunt escaped the tabby, spilling some coffee on his lap. Shooting a confused look, Chance was met with a sharp look from Jake, who tilted his face downward.

"Let's not bring out old things right now. Both of you. We can discuss that later," Jake said. His face held a smile, though his eyes told a different story. "Is that understood?"

Both toms exchanged glances, nodding in agreement before continuing a simple conversation. Oliver wanted to know what was happening with the three of them, though he kept silent. Which was easy as he couldn't speak. Focusing on the TV, he saw his cousin had lost interest in what was happening as a big grin appeared on him.

"Uly?" a voice called out.

As Luna descended the stairs, everyone stopped what they were doing and turned to look at her. Feral stood up and walked towards her, arms open wide. They embraced each other and shared a tender moment. Oliver heard a faint hiss from the tabby cat beside him, followed by a grunt when Jake elbowed Chance.

Jake wished the Furlongs could calm down, and he felt sorry for his former commander, who was the center of attention. As soon as Oliver got introduced to his new aunts and uncles, Freya shooed away the kids to play outside while the adults talked inside. Like a flip of a coin, the bloodthirst of the Furlongs showed as the door closed. At first, they spoke, and then it became more like interrogating Feral for an hour. Luna got annoyed and defended Feral as the giant kat kept silent, mostly letting the Furlongs go at him. Then, a long silence followed, with nobody knowing where to go. Jake monitored his mate with the other Furlong partners as they watched from the kitchen door.

"So, anybody wants a beer?" Andy said. He was a large, orange cat with a beer belly and thick arms. In all honesty, Andy looked strange without his signature coach uniform and whistle. Letting out a hum, he moved to the fridge and opened it. "Jake. Ned. Do you both want one?"

"Definitely," both Jake and Ned said in unison. They quickly caught the milk beer and used a claw to open it.

"So," Ned said. As he took a sip, he glanced back at the mess in the living room. Ned is a black-maned lion who looks slimmer than Andy but broader than Jake, wearing semi-professional clothing. He shifted his glasses and appeared bored, but it was just his face, as Jake had learned. "Should we do something?"

"You kidding? Our wives will tear us apart," Andy said while balking. He shivered, shaking his head and frowning. Shifting around, he lands on Jake, letting out a coy smile. "However, Jake here can go in and get that poor son of a bitch over here."

"Why me?" Jake said.

Both Ned and Andy shared a look before turning to Jake with a grin before slapping his back hard. It stung though Andy came close and whispered, "Because Chance fears you, not the other way around. Go get Feral before he becomes chow meat for the Furlongs."

Jake hissed, rubbing his back and feeling the two toms push him out of the kitchen. Giving the toms a hateful stare, he moved in and avoided getting the Furlongs' attention. Standing behind the firing squad, he caught Luna's attention. He signaled his intentions, getting a nod from her and nudging Feral to move. His ex-commander appeared confused at first before realizing what was going on.

"And where do you think you are going?" Chance said. He stood before a chair, leaning on the top of it to show his enormous arms. Letting go, he approached them.

"Chance, cool it," Jake said. He flicked his mate's temple, getting the tabby to back down and hiss. Never in his wildest dreams did he imagine saving his ex-boss from the clutches of angry kats or his mate. Giving everyone a look, they were against Feral and didn't seem keen on him being here. Yet, seeing Luna's dismayed face made him want to help her. "I know this is a lot. Trust me. I have my own issues with this guy." He used his thumb to point behind him where Feral stood near. "However, whether or not you like it. Luna's happy. Are you all okay with standing between her and the tom she loves?"

The Furlongs had a stubborn streak that could be both positive and negative. However, when confronted directly, Furlongs will listen. Chance's family appeared surprised yet uneasy upon realizing they were in the wrong. This was just the beginning, but someone had to pave the way for Feral. Now, Feral had to prove himself to them on his own terms. Jake didn't like the kat in question. However, he could observe how they interacted with each other. How they would reach for each other or exchange meaningful glances showed they had each other's backs, just like how Jake interacted with Chance or vice-versa. They could convey a lot through a simple touch or glance. They had it.

"Alright, Jake, dear. You made a point. However, I'll be honest. I'm not okay with it," Freya said. She quickly put her hand up to stop Luna from speaking. "But if you two are serious, I won't stop you. We... and yes, I mean 'we' will try to support you. Baby, it's going to be a while till I can see this fucker in a different light."

Feral moved around Jake, standing with an ounce of unwavering spirit. "I appreciate it. We both do. I'm serious about her and love her," he said. Luna appeared delighted at that and mouthed that she loved him.

Freya appeared unconvinced and scratched her head as if deep in thought. Suddenly, her eyes widened, and a grin spread across her face. "So, sourpuss. You love my little girl. Right?"

Raising an eyebrow, Feral shifted a bit before nodding.

With one finger raised up, Freya continued, "Then, how about this? You'll-"

"This is so unfair," Luna huffed in annoyance.

Feral would agree, though now he didn't know how to feel. He wondered if this is how young kats felt when asking the parents to take their girls to prom in high school. However, he didn't linger long on that thought as he didn't want to think about his high school years. He left too many things undone because the shadow tightly gripped him. "It's okay. Only six days here."

Luna crossed her arms, getting close to him and resting on his chest while looking up with her green eyes. "It's not okay. Ulysses Feral never takes the holidays off. Hell, he barely remembers his birthday," she said. With an annoyed expression, she poked his chest.

Snorting, Feral shifted closer to her. "Hmm. Though my last birthday was rather fun," he whispered. He got what he was aiming for, seeing Luna blush and squirm. Most of the time, he would work on his birthday, much to the dismay of his family and lover. Of course, his mate had other plans, and they did something his former self wouldn't dream of doing in his lifetime. Office sex. It felt so wrong yet hot as they did everything on his desk. He made a mental note to burn his office chair and replace it whenever he retires in the far future. But for now, that chair and desk were another place they made love during downtime.

"Down, boy. Now, it's not the time for play," she said, giving him a quick peck on the cheek. Her expression softened. "Not exactly how I wanted you to meet my kids."

As they exited the house, he paused near the youngest kids, who were building a snowkat. The little one surprised him, not expecting Oliver to be so relaxed around him or poking his chin with wonder. He snorted. It's their child. It amused him to think of those hotshots becoming parents, though he silently wished them success, especially after hearing about how they found him from Luna. This city needed more work. He needed to shift gears and solve the omega problem so they could put more resources in the right place.

Feeling a tap on his arm, Feral turned to see Luna. She smiled, waving at him to stay as she headed towards the willow tree, where her kids were hanging around. He tried to remember the first time she mentioned them, though he recalled seeing a picture of all three on her desk. During that time, they barely scratched the surface of friendship, sharing professional conversations and pleasantries. Yet, underneath it all, he could tell she loathed him, as did many kats. He didn't blame her. After a disastrous chase with Dark Kat, he stripped her brother of his rank to work in the salvage yard to pay for the damages. Both Clawson and Furlong were young, bold, and excellent enforcers. Unfortunately, they had a nack to go solo and not listen to their superiors, who already had them under hot water with the former mayor's council. Then, the ultimatum happened. Either get them under control or face the risk of them getting someone who can do it. Those little twats in their fancy suits were spineless like the mayor though they knew how to use their venomous tongues to make citizens doubt his leadership over the enforcers. Perhaps he was irritated because the young and ambitious hotshots had disregarded their supervisors, or he feared losing the job he had worked so hard to secure. Now, he had forgotten why he instructed them to step back and let him be the one to bring Dark Kat down. Was it pride? Anger? Or was it because his job was at stake? Ultimately, his decision inadvertently led them to seal the fate of their careers. He didn't feel a sense of accomplishment or satisfaction when he finished putting them down with their military punishment. He felt like his father was speaking.

Shaking his head, Feral focused up, seeing Luna finishing her discussion with her kids. They approached him.

"Uly, these are my two boys, Conner and Cale," Luna said. Both her boys stood on each side of her. Conner looked at him with such disregard as he had his hands behind him, though the same could not be displayed with Cale as he shyly waved at him. Feral would take what he could get, kneeling and nodding at them.

"It's good to finally meet you," Feral said. He hoped his nervousness didn't show as he had no experience with kids. Sometimes, he wished he helped his brother out when Felina was born. Rubbing his chin, he felt lost in what to say next. "I, uh... hope we can become friends."

Cale tilted his head, letting a smile appear. "Mom talks about you when at home. She's happy. That's good enough for me," he said. Glancing at his side, he eyed his brother. "Conner?"

Conner's ears perked, and his look softened as he glanced at his brother. With a small sigh, he put his hands down and inspected Feral from top to bottom. "You seem scarier on TV. Oh well. As long as you don't hurt my mom, then I don't care," he said. He turned around and waved his hand dismissively as he returned to the tree.

"Conner!" Lune said sharply.

"What?" Conner replied. He glanced back with a bored expression. "I said hi. He's not our dad or friend. Plus, he's the one who put Uncle Jake and Chance in that place."

Luna appeared lost. Her eyes narrowed as she shook her head, preparing to speak.

"It's alright," Feral said, reaching Luna's paw. Her expression told him it hurt to hear that from her kitten.

Cale frowned, facing Feral. He appeared conflicted, bowing his head and following his brother.

"Uly. I'm sorry about that," Luna whispered. She gazed down at the ground, wearing a defeated expression. "Maybe I should have told them it was you instead of dancing around it. Crud, this is not how I planned this to go."

Feral couldn't agree more. Standing up, he watched her kittens return to the willow tree, taking their original position. He couldn't get them both to like him if Conner was against it. He had to change the tiger kitten's mind about him before he could create a bridge between them. Eternally, he wished he could deal with it like he dealt with his subordinates, though these were his mate's kittens, not enforcers.

"To be fair, I was prepared for this," Feral said. It hurt, but Freya's words rang back to him. He had to show them he was here to stay with the Furlong family and for them not to doubt his love for Luna. Despite knowing Luna loved him, he desired her family's affection to ensure her happiness. He pulled his mate close. "Ready to get your tail kicked with me?"

Luna blinked, turning her head to face him. A smile appeared on her, and she nodded. "Alright. At least Jake and Pops seem the most open about us."

"That's a start. I think your brother and mother will be the hardest to convince."

"I wish they could be less stubborn sometimes."

"True. Yet, that same stubbornness got us together."

"You calling me stubborn?" Luna asked. She put her hands on her hip and playfully eyed him down. "Babe, you're the definition of stubborn."

Feral grinned, shrugging his shoulder. "I call it hard working."

"Sure. That's what it is," Luna said before glancing back at the tree. "So, how did your second take it? Is he upset he's running things this week?"

"Hmm. Reiko is okay with it. He was already in the office this morning."

Luna turned back with a confused look. "Huh? That's weird. I was sure he was going to be off this week."

"That's what I thought."

"Jeez. You toms need to know when to relax. Is everyone gunning for your job this obsessive?" Luna snorted, shaking her head. Crossing her arms, she glanced at the floor pensively. "That tom. Something about him ticks me off."

"Oh. Luna Furlong does not like someone she barely knows," Feral joked. When Luna didn't react, he got concerned, getting close and touching her shoulder.

"Sorry. No, it's not that. It's hard to explain," Luna explained, rubbing her head. "Reiko is fine on the outside. It's better than your previous second, that's for sure. It's just that with Steele, everyone could tell his bullshit. During our breaks, the other girls talked with me about Steele's incompetence or how others would blow him off. Yet, with Reiko's secretary, she shares nothing about her boss but acts like another eye for him."

"Another eye? Luna, I think you have been watching too many action movies," Feral said. He rubbed her shoulder, though he got an annoyed look from his mate. "What? It's true!"

"First of all, they are very informative. Second of all, it's not that. Reiko doesn't talk about himself. He is meticulous and calculating in the way he talks. It's almost like he makes sure he doesn't say the wrong thing. I don't know, babe. Reiko just doesn't sit right with me."

Feral didn't know what to say. He trusted Luna's feelings, though it would be wrong to assume fault on someone who hasn't done a thing. His second didn't hit any alarms with him, though, if he were honest, he barely focused on Reiko as he did his job. It felt easier having someone competent at his side. "I understand. However, I can't go based on feelings alone, Luna. How about this? I'll keep a closer eye on him. Hmm?"

Luna sighed, nodding her head. "Alright." She smirked and pointed a claw towards his chest. "For now, let's focus on me having you here all week."

"Unless some omega tries to ruin it," Feral added.

"Don't be a sourpuss. It's the holiday! Think positively and let the worries roll over to the following year. It's not like someone is dying out there."

The stench of death never got old, though at least James no longer gagged because of it. Yet, the newest recruit near him couldn't help it, blowing chunks into the nearby sink. The more veteran gangsters laughed at the young thug, who told them to shut up as he held his head above the sink. James kept quiet, taking in the scene before him. A potential lead was beaten and left for dead in his apartment. The poor tom's face was so swollen that the picture of him nearby no longer looked like him. Tied up on a chair with arms appearing like he struggled to break free, left bare with only a boxer on him. Whoever was here before had tortured this poor soul, probably looking for the same answers as them. The location of Deacon.

"Well, this was a waste of time," Aiko said flatly. He was an old-school gangster, more roughed looking than most, and a snow leopard. His red shades covered his eyes, and he wore a dark trench wool coat and a white shirt. Broad and muscular, Aiko could control his unruly subordinates with a fist. He crouched down, not at all bothered by the sight before him. "Did the Golden Circle get here before us?"

"I doubt that, sir," James said, though he regretted it. He hissed at himself internally for speaking up with his detective cap on. While he hoped Aiko would ignore him, he got the old tom's curious gaze. "Sorry, sir. I'll keep it down."

The rest of the nearby thugs laughed, egging Aiko to hit James. They hoped James would finally feel Aiko's stone fist.

Aiko gazes around James, getting the thugs to quiet down. His face doesn't hint at what he was thinking as he returned to James. Pointing at the scene, he signals for James to continue.

Not having a choice, James nods his head. Retaking the scene, he notices how everything is condensed to one spot. "It's too clean. When has the Golden Circle ever been this modest? There are no signs of struggle outside or anything to indicate he fought off whoever did this to him." He stops, pretending to think it over despite already deducting another third player, letting them figure out where he's going with this.

"Other kats? Jeez, Kira kind of reaching here," one thug says.

"Maybe that's why he's so quiet? He would spout stupid things if he engaged with us," another chimed in.

"Almost sounds like a detective," another added, making others burst out in a laugh. "The great detective Kira."

Aiko stands up, moving towards the last commenter before sending the poor thug flying back with his fist. With a roar from Aiko, the rest of the thugs tense up and stand to attention. "If I ask for your opinion, then I'll ask. Make yourself useful and get the car ready."

All the thugs nodded, with the one on the ground following them, holding his cheek as he gave James a side eye before leaving.

It was just the two now. James didn't know what to do, as Aiko hadn't told him to go. He could remember infiltrating the clan two years ago, acting like a kat down on their luck and desperate for money. Of course, Kira was his undercover name, and he could still remember fitting the bill to what the covert agency was looking for. There was no way he would let the opportunity slip by, and he was glad his superiors took a chance on him. Yet, no matter how much training James had, it didn't prepare him for everything after adopting this fake life. His superiors hadn't signaled him when it would be over, so he had to keep playing his part until they pulled him out. Maybe whatever is going on with the criminal families is going to put an end to this. Who knows? It's not like he had anywhere to be or someone to return to. As he said, he was the perfect fit for the role.

Focusing up, James looked at Aiko as he attempted to light a cigarette. A slight hiss escaped the old tom as he glared at his lighter. Moving in, James pulled out his own lighter and lit it. Aiko said very little as he nodded, putting the cigar close to the fire and taking a significant drag. The smell mixed severely with the dead stench, though James kept it to himself while waiting for Aiko to speak.

"Have an idea of who it is?" Aiko said.

"Sorry, sir, they're right. I might be overthinking it," James said. He prepared to excuse himself till Aiko stopped him, slamming a paw near his face, blocking his exit, and getting close.

Aiko blew smoke at the side before crushing the cigar with his meaty hand. "Don't bullshit me. Is that understood?"

"Yes, sir," James let out quickly. He had never felt the wrath of Aiko, nor had he ever been this close to his boss's face. The gray eyes underneath the shades looked nice, and he could feel Aiko's body better as the older kat pressed himself closer to his, like a stone that could break him if he wanted to. He shivered and ducked his head. "I'm sorry."

Aiko said nothing momentarily. Reaching with the same paw that crushed the cigar, he cupped James's chin so they could look at each other. Keeping his neutral face, he eased up, letting his other hand down, but kept his distance as he waited for an answer.

"Whomever it was," James continued. He licked his lips and looked at the scene once more. "They carefully entered the apartment, surprised that poor sod, and covered their tracks. Look at the floor. They didn't even leave a footprint anywhere. If we looked around with the proper equipment, I bet there wouldn't be a single hair follicle of whoever else was here. This screams professional or someone who knows how to not leave evidence."

Aiko said nothing, scrutinizing the scene. It was too difficult to tell what the tom thought based on the lack of body language. Aiko released James' chin and moved towards the exit. He stopped at the door, keeping his attention on it. "I think you may be right. For now, keep it to yourself. The Nikko family is on the hunt and not in the right mindset to discuss theories. They may turn their attention against you, letting their rage believe you know something when you don't."

James blinked. It felt like Aiko was not talking to him like a boss but with genuine concern. Yet, his memories reminded him of how Aiko acted with others under him. He could be possibly overthinking it, and Aiko is just covering himself. Either way, Aiko had a point. "Yes, sir."

"Good. Let's go," Aiko said in a dry tone.

Before James followed Aiko, he took one last look at the scene, mentally noting he had to report it once clear. Then again, he needed to talk to someone familiar. A young and brash academy buddy came to mind, making him snort, wondering how things were going for her. She seems fine based on the moments he catches her on TV or the last time they talked over a secure line. He requested her when they asked him for someone to be his support channel.

"Hmm. I wonder how FF is doing," he whispered, exiting the apartment.

As he walked towards the stairs, he spotted Aiko waiting for him. Aiko seemed annoyed, and James quickened his step to reach him. He apologized for taking so long, but the old tom only responded by turning away and sharply letting his tail swish to the side. At least he didn't get punched or gut-punched like other subordinates who showed up late, even for a second. When he started this job, he could recall meeting Aiko for the first time with the other recruits. The old tom told them bluntly he wasn't their friend and that they better not get in his way or else. Someone stupid enough challenged Aiko about the 'else' part, getting the air knocked out of him. Being under Aiko wasn't all bad. They usually served as bodyguards or shook some poor fool who owed the family money. Other lieutenants deal with other nefarious acts, so at least James can keep out of it and never cross a line. He knew his superiors hoped he went deeper, though they had been satisfied with his surveillance.

James stared at Aiko's muscular back as they descended the stairs. He blushed and rubbed his eyes, scolding himself internally. He desperately needs a drink and a good bed partner. At least I have something fun to talk about with Felina, James thought bitterly.