Chapter 14: Vows

"Morning, boss. I got you a cup of coffee," James said, handing a drink to Aiko. He glanced at the wall and noticed another Nikko member taking a smoke break nearby. The three stood before an apartment complex in the city's southern section. "So… this is the place? Nice digs. Let's see… we are meeting with Angel Cadillac today, right?"

Aiko gazed at the beverage that was given to him. Placing the drink in a nearby newspaper box, he faced James again, clearly annoyed. He shoots a glance toward the other tomcat before returning to James. With a sharp and dry tone, he said, "You're talking too much."

James blinked, wondering if he had done something wrong. "Sorry?"

The other tomcat cackled nearby. He threw his cigar on the floor and stepped on it before moving closer, swiping and drinking the coffee Aiko put down. He got close to James. Displaying his sharp fangs, he grinned. "Aww. Aiko, I didn't know you ran a pansy squad. Does the little kiss-ass fold your clothes and cook your meals also?"

Stifling a rumble in his throat, James kept silent. Aiko would have put this snow leopard on the ground if it were any other guy. However, despite being younger, this guy had a higher rank than Aiko—another snow leopard named Kei Fang. Kei was thinner, louder, and wilder in the eyes. According to James' recollection, Kei's father managed an illicit sex ring for the clan and was planning to retire, passing the reins to his son.

Before James could utter a word, he felt something sharp poking his neck. He could feel it penetrating the first layer as he felt a minor wetness. He glanced down to see Kei holding a knife.

"Kind of rude to not bring me a drink, wouldn't you say?" Kei asked with a poisonous smile.

Despite not being intimidated by the threat, Kai's sudden use of a knife in broad daylight startled James. He could push the knife aside and knock Kai down if he chose to. However, that was the trained enforcer, James, not Kira. He mustered the best docile look he could muster before talking. "I'm sorry, sir. I didn't mean to offend you."

"Huh! It seems like that's what you are doing," Kai accused in a low tone. He reached out and pinched James's left ear, yanking it with such force. "What are you going to do to make up for it, you little shit? Huh? What? Maybe I should teach you manners before meeting that she-kat."

While Kai persistently pulled at his ear, James controlled his growl. He felt an overwhelming urge to deliver a devastating punch to the smaller tom. "Sorry, boss."

Before Kai could continue taunting James, Aiko cut in. "Angel is not a she-kat."

Abruptly ceasing his abuse, Kai's eyes widen with surprise. He let go of James and turned towards Aiko with his ears perked. "The fuck you say? Did I hear right? I thought we were here to visit one of Tram's playthings."

"We are."

Kai met Aiko with a piercing glare, transitioning from a perplexed expression to one of utter disgust. "You're telling me Tram was a tail-swiper? No fucking way!"

"I would appreciate it if you kept this between us. The honorable Tram had many partners, some male," Aiko said, putting a hand on his chest before bowing. "Joko told me to investigate these males personally. I was going to inform you before we went inside. My greatest apology."

Kai eyed Aiko suspiciously, then shot a displeased look at the apartment. Spinning his knife, he returned it to its case on his belt before walking away. "I tagged along expecting chicks or the clan's Great Iron Wall to bust some heads today. Not this shit. Don't you worry, Aiko, I won't say a word about this… shit." His gaze turned deadly as he halted, fixing his eyes on James. "You better show this prick some manners."

James felt Aiko's strong paw snatching his head and forcing him to bow. "I will. I'll make sure he learns," he said while bowing.

After a moment, Aiko let go, and James looked up to see that Kai was long gone. "Thank you, Aiko. Sorry for—"

Aiko grabbed James's shirt and let out a menacing roar, bringing their faces close. He balled his other meaty fist, and it looked ready to be swung. "Are you stupid?" he asked with such thunder.

James shivered, feeling terrified at the beast before him. Aiko established dominance over him without using a weapon. Unable to utter a single word, he stayed silent. The intimidating stare of those ashy eyes and hands that could break him held him captive. He submissively bowed his head and waited for whatever Aiko did to him.

Suddenly, he felt something being placed on his neck. His boss carefully shifted his fingers, moving the fur of James's neck. Just as James was about to inquire, Aiko suddenly hissed and forcefully shoved him, causing him to stumble and fall onto his rear.

"What is the matter with you?" Aiko asked with such coldness.

"Nothing, sir. I just thought about bringing you something for the morning."

"Are you sure?" Aiko said sharply. He crossed his enormous arms with his tail flicking behind him. "You've been different. Annoyingly so. Get your shit together and play your part. You don't want any attention in your direction from anyone." He shook his head, letting out a frustrated breath before heading towards the entrance. "Or the next time, you'll have something other than a knife. Is that understood?"

James was at a loss for words, unable to say anything. What Aiko said left him completely stunned. Has he been pestering his boss too much as of late? Annoying? However, his brain reminded him of his latest interaction with Aiko. All the attempts for small talk or him being friendlier with Aiko. That's not Kira, the silent and always-in-his-corner person he built. He felt silly, wondering if he had acted like an interested schoolgirl in front of the other members. That would spell trouble for him.

Annoying.

That word echoed in James's head, cutting his panic and thoughts. It made his heart feel heavier than usual. He exhaled and closed his eyes before opening them again, letting the emptiness take hold of him. He slowly picked himself up from the floor. Every step that followed felt not like his own, making his way inside and heading towards the open elevator.

The doors closed, and the elevator mechanism hummed as it raised them. James felt a small part of him wanting to look as they ascended. His persona cursed at him to keep in line, growling about the mission. Then, it mocked him, questioning why he couldn't be content with his current life, away from the chance of getting hurt.

A glance revealed Aiko standing near the elevator's door, back turned towards James. Despite his intention to apologize, James found himself restrained and unable to speak.

…

James groaned, feeling the hot sun attack his eyes. He turned his body away, pressing the pillow on his head. He had a pounding headache, a parched mouth, and an utterly worn-out body. Speaking about his body, his lower half felt sore, and his neck felt bruised. By sniffing, he recognized the scent of another male, giving him insight into what occurred. Even though he got extremely drunk, he still somehow brought someone back from the club, although he had no memory of it.

To remember, he retraced his actions, but the only memory he could recall was of Jake Clawson, the famous ex-gunner. There was a moment where he questioned if he had crossed a line and become a home wrecker, but he swiftly dismissed that notion because that guy wasn't his type. With a sigh, he sunk further into the bed, feeling the plushness of the mattress beneath him.

'Those two,' James thought to himself. He recalled the famous or infamous duo, depending on who asked.

Chance Furlong and Jake Clawson graduated a year before his group. Those who completed the program alongside them would speak of their exceptional qualities, although they were sometimes too daring and ambitious. Within one year, the radical hotshots established their reputation by defeating several dangerous pilots. There wasn't a day when Enforcers would mention them in passing conversation, whether good or bad. Many of the young blood aspired to be like them and make their mark, though they lacked the duo's grit and willingness to ignore orders from their superiors. Sometimes, that admiration turned to jealousy and bitterness after the first year ended, though they kept silent while the more senior officers visibly did not like them.

Then, the crash happened.

While still on patrol in the streets, James vividly remembers where he was. The once silent enforcers filled the locker rooms with jeers, mocking the duo and teasing that it would take them nine lives to settle the debt. The once friends turned their backs and dissociated themselves from the pair. They warned any new enforcers not to become like Furlong and Clawson.

"Bunch of worthless toms. So easy for them to turn tail or push someone when they are down," he whispered, disgusted by those enforcers. No matter what, he still considers those two fellow enforcers. While he agreed that kats shouldn't disregard orders from their superiors as insubordination can cause chaos and loss of life, times were changing, and they needed to think differently to fight the current threat. Things got out of hand with the emergence of the omegas that plagued the city. The current training didn't match the setting, which trained upcoming enforcers to deal with a non-omega world, plus the poor funding from the politics didn't help matters. A feeling of heaviness came over his eyes. "I hope things change soon."

Suddenly, James felt powerful arms pulling him close. He felt the muscular chest and belly pressing against him. His initial surprise quickly faded as he relaxed, allowing the person behind him to embrace him with warmth and protection. It felt nice. However, this was new for him as most tomcats would be gone the day before he awoke.

That's something he was used to.

James felt a sad smile escape him as he thought about it while wondering how hungover he was not to notice the male still in his bed. He shivered and purred as the male's hot breath brushed against his neck. Whoever it was, they seemed dominant, just the way he liked them. He had bed tigers, lions, and other species of kats that fit his liking. They had a particular scent on them.

This scent smelled familiar.

That got him curious. James shifted his body around to face whomever it was. His body froze when he looked at the stranger's face. However, this was no stranger. The sun's glare didn't stop him from seeing Aiko sleeping peacefully before him. While still asleep, his boss stirred and pulled James closer to his furry, broad chest, emitting a low growl as if someone had taken his toy.

James let out a surprised sound as he fumbled away. Despite the impact on the floor, he paid no attention to the pain and stumbled back onto his feet. He rushed to the adjoining bathroom and closed the door after him. His heart raced a million miles as he let his back slide down against the door to the floor.

While listening carefully, James could make out Aiko's growl and mutter about something. Then the bed creaked. As he walked towards the door, his boss took a calm, measured, and heavy steps. Aiko paused momentarily before the entrance. Eventually, Aiko veered away, and the other door to the living room opened and closed.

Nothing made sense to James. He couldn't believe that he and his boss had been intimate, but the scent of Aiko on his fur was undeniable. The territorial mark on his neck and the pain in his bottom reminded him of what had occurred during their intense night that he did not remember.

James sat motionless on the floor for what felt like an eternity before finally getting up and turning on the showers. He needed to do something. Anything to take his mind off what was happening. As he kept washing, he attempted to settle his hyper mind. He settled on the idea that the kat he saw wasn't Aiko but someone who looked like him.

After finishing the cold shower, James dried himself for a few minutes before reaching for the door. He peeked out, seeing nobody inside his bedroom. Taking a slower approach, he went to the door to the living room and put a hand on the handle. He breathed and counted to calm himself before twisting and opening the handle.

Sitting on the couch, a half-naked snow leopard was calmly reading the day's newspaper. He had neatly folded his shirt and coat nearby. His broad chest matched his thick arms. He appeared like a bear with a firm and round belly. Old scars littered his body, from old slashes to apparent bullet wounds. An extended cut that never healed right, and no fur grew back, stretched from the middle of his chest to his belly button.

"Uh," James let out.

Aiko slightly lowered the paper, looking at James before drifting down. With a disapproving shake of his head, he went back to his reading. "Someone is feeling free today," he said flatly. He flipped the page before pointing at a plate and a cup. "Eat."

Oh, he must be referring to me being naked. Wait. This is my apartment! James thought bitterly. He wanted to ask Aiko so many things, yet every question that did form caused a headache.

Giving up for now, James did as he was told and sat on the couch. He picked up the plate holding a golden omelet. As he took a bite, the taste of it amazed him. He took another bite, enjoying the savory bacon and ham mixed inside. It almost distracted him. But it was weird to pretend last night didn't happen.

After finishing his food, James nervously looked at the tomcat near him. "Sir, about last night."

"What of it?" Aiko asked, not breaking away from the paper.

"What do you mean 'what of it'?"

"Like I said, what of it? We fucked. That's it."

James felt his eye twitch, but he held his tongue. Taking a breather, he continued. "Alright. I guess… I just never thought you swung that way… sir."

"I don't recall needing to explain myself," Aiko stated as a matter of fact. He folded the paper and tucked it underneath an arm. "However, this is not the time to talk about that. We have other, more important, things to discuss."

James felt defeated, letting himself lean his body on the couch. His head throbbed even worse than before. "Oh. You mean about the honorable Benjamine," he said, not hiding his annoyance. Something landed on the sofa, touching his leg. Groaning, James checked what landed near him. He felt his heart sink, and a cold sweat formed.

Resting beside his leg was the secretive enforcer phone.

"We need to talk, detective."

Oliver felt so out of it, wishing this event had occurred later instead of the early morning. That and he was wearing another stupid outfit. He hated it but couldn't stay mad, as he would see his parents soon. He looked to the side to see a sprite tomcat with a wooden clipboard ordering the hired help to get things ready. This tom named Randy Bow stopped nearby to release an exaggerated breath before looking down at Oliver.

"My, aren't you just adorable," Randy said with such a feminine pitch. He giggled, putting the hand holding the clipboard on his waist and tapping his mouth with a pen. His bell, attached to one ear, chimed as he moved his head. "Now, Oliver dear, do you remember what to do?"

When Randy moved, Oliver had no chance to sign anything. He led Oliver down the hallway and grandly opened the double door.

"Don't you worry. I got you! You and I will be in the back. Once the officiant asks for the rings, you'll walk down carrying the rings towards your daddies," Randy explained, signaling toward the small steps leading to the altar. He purred and looked proud of himself. "I can just picture all the guests' faces. The symbolism, the passion, and the cuteness. They'll melt at the sight of you. Randy, you've done it again! I…"

Recognizing where this was headed, Oliver diverted his attention elsewhere.

Randy was funny, though slightly eccentric, mainly when discussing his unique ideas. To be fair, Randy was passionate about weddings. He mews his desire for his college friend, Callie, to get hitched to Felina as soon as possible. Callie gushed with him, though Felina would throw stares for the oblivious Randy to back off. With Randy, most can excuse themselves from the tomcat's ramblings when they had their fill, but Oliver wasn't so lucky, especially since he couldn't speak.

As Randy kept going, Oliver kept glancing around the room.

The lovely, long red carpet leads to the podium, and the marble floor underneath covers most of the area. The beautiful red oak benches have long red cushions and back support that cut off and continue making an 'L' shape seating arrangement in each row. They added a makeshift altar on the podium with a simple rose color drape and white drapes on the corners, making an arch. Behind the altar stood an impressive circular mirror showing the outside, with the latest Doctor Viper's stunning mess perfectly fitting with the mirror.

Despite seeing the view a couple of times, Oliver would always be in awe of seeing it. From what the girls and Randy had said, this spot will be hard to reserve in the future. Some will playfully say his fathers were lucky to pick this spot before the whole colossal pot sprouted in the middle of the city.

Pa. Dad, Oliver thought, wishing they were here now. With a deep exhale, he resisted the urge to seek them out immediately, recognizing the significance of today's events for their happiness. Suppressing his longing, Oliver experienced sadness as he continued to gaze upward without purpose.

The concrete and thick wooden support beams were above, with a few windows and dark corners in certain spots. A purple cloak poked at the edge of one of the dark spots, and a bony red hand appeared. Oliver squinted, trying to see who it was.

"Almost time, my little star," Randy said, blocking Oliver's view.

Oliver mewed, shifting to the side to look at the spot again. Nothing was there. He was sure there was someone there.

"See something?" Randy asked, turning to look where Oliver was looking. He returned with a puzzled look, but it quickly changed to delight when his eyes shifted towards the entrance. "Callie! Oh, Cal!"

Oliver watched Randy hurry towards the hallway. He looked at the dark spot, wondering if he saw something, before heading towards the exit.

Chance pulled on his neck, feeling the gray tie suffocating him. He growled, wishing to rip it off, but Richard's firm paw stopped him. Most toms would back off when he glared at them, but not his brother, who snorted and fixed the bow.

"What's with you?" Richard whispered as soon as he finished. He glanced at where their sisters were talking and giggling before returning to Chance. "Something biting your tail?"

"I'm fine," Chance stated, avoiding his brother's eyes and looking around.

The Little Garden was a church near the massive park near the center of Megakat City. It offered a place for worship and events, with a connected banquet hall. However, they decided not to have the party here but at his mom's house. Currently, Chance and his group are in a private room next to the wedding area, while Jake's group is in their private room on the opposite side.

The mere thought of Jake weighed heavily on Chance, engulfing him in a wave of depression. If only he could go back and refuse Lindsey's offer. He could remember the nights they slept apart, the tension lingering in the air, with Chance reluctantly settling on the couch. He never wanted to hurt his mate.

"Is it about Jake?" Richard's voice cut in.

Chance blinked, turning to see Richard observing him. He wanted to say no, but he nodded to confirm.

Richard turned to his sisters. "Hey, can you guys check how things are going out there? Give this idiot some peace of mind because he seems distracted."

Upon seeing Richard, the Furlong sisters cast a doubtful gaze, but their suspicion waned when they redirected their attention to Chance and nodded in agreement. They each hugged Chance, saying different things about how fantastic today would go while telling Richard not to be an ass today. They departed shortly afterward.

Richard double-checked the door before returning to Chance. He looked embarrassed, coughing before slowly raising his left hand and curling his outer finger to a hook. "Tell the truth. We never speak of it again. Whoever breaks it breaks a finger."

The old saying reminded Chance of how often they used to do this when they were close. They used this to allow one another to learn what the other felt without a filter or repercussions. Together, they came up with the idea after discovering the religious booths where kats confessed their sins without fear of repetition. He held back his laughter and grinned. "Really? Aren't ya too old for that?"

"Shut it," Richard said, gritting his teeth. He looked away and scoffed. "I'm just trying to help."

Chance would have said another thing but stopped himself. Even if it may only be brief, he could see that old side of Richard again. It made him happy. He curled his finger and locked in. "Whoever breaks it breaks a finger," he repeated.

Richard nodded, pulling the chairs close to them to sit. Once he sat, he clasped his hands together. "So, what's going on? You've been tense these past few days. You looked worse last night at the beach."

"Think our sisters notice?"

Richard shrugged. "Maybe, though they probably think you were just freaking out about the wedding," he said. "So out with it. What's wrong?"

Tapping his chin, Chance mustered the strength to talk about it. He hissed and eternally told himself to tom up. "I fucked up. I lied to Jake about how I got Oliver into that school. There was never a friend from high school but his mother."

"Ah! That's how you did it," Richard cut in, smacking a fist in his other paw.

Chance glared at him. "Can I continue?"

"Sorry."

Exhaling, Chance rubbed his neck. "Jake isn't good with his family. There is too much to go over about the Clawsons, but let's just say the last time they met up, Jake had his father pinned to the floor."

Richard looks surprised. With a shake of his head, he brought his hand to his chin, a contemplative expression on his face. "That… doesn't sound like Jake. Never could imagine him doing that."

"You think, but again, his family… mostly his father… strike a particular nerve in Jake. With his mother and sister, he believes they chose his father over him, especially when he got kicked out of the house for joining the enforcers. I think, ever since then, he has had some lingering abandonment issues, and I triggered it a couple of days ago. He… thinks I chose them over him… and it hurt him."

Richard's gaze shifted to the floor momentarily until he faced Chance again. "But his sister and mother are here."

"Only by a whim. I just told Jake's family they could come when Lindsey called one day, but I wasn't mentally there when I said it. You know?"

Richard appeared to understand. "Was the fight bad?"

"We haven't talked, and I've been sleeping on the couch since then," Chance admitted, hating those lonely nights. He exhaled, leaning back against the chair and rubbing his face. "I'm scared, Richard. I'm so fucking scared I ruin things."

"I don't think you did," Richard quickly said. Before Chance could say anything, he raised a paw. "You fucked up. That's for sure. But it will take a lot more to ruin what you two have. If Jake wanted to leave you, he would have ended the plans for this wedding and not wasted others' time. You know this better than me… somewhere in your small brain."

Chance growled. "Asshole."

"I'll take it. It's not like any of you think of me any differently," Richard muttered, looking at the floor.

Stopping himself, Chance glanced over at his brother, taking in the pained expression on his face. He put a hand on his brother's shoulder. "We don't think that."

"Sure. Just forget it," Richard said, pushing the hand away. "Like I was saying, you know it better than me. You're just too close to see it. I bet Jake is back to his usual self already. You can probably talk to him now."

Chance gave an unsure nod. Despite being preoccupied with Jake, Chance observed his brother's distant and melancholy gaze. Before he could utter a word, his sisters reappeared, and Richard immediately transformed, pretending as if the previous events had never transpired, as he casually stood against the wall. His sisters approached him and informed him that everything would be ready soon and the wedding guests were arriving.

Time moved faster than Chance liked because soon he arrived behind the altar, hiding behind the curtain away from the guest's eyes. He glanced toward the sizeable window that showed Viper's last mess. This location's window perfectly aligned with it, as if it were part of it, like a mosaic window. It made him grateful that Callie had secured this place for them. He had to thank her later.

"I love the flowers you brought me," a voice called out to him.

Chance blinked, glancing to the side to see Jake standing there with a suit polar opposite to each other.

Jake wore that pleasant light gray suit with a tie that matched Chance's dark blue suit. They both had boutonniere on one side of their suit, a combination of red, blue, and black with dark green on each side to look like wings. This was Jake's idea, secretly nodding to their Swat Kat personas' colors. Chance loved it. He couldn't look away, unable to keep his eyes away from the handsome tom before him.

"Cat got your tongue?" Jake said, gently smacking Chance's side. He smiled, reaching out to fix the boutonniere. "Do you Think our kid is bored out of his mind?"

Chance felt confused, wondering if he had hit his head. However, it didn't matter. He needed to apologize. "I'm…"

"Let's save it for later," Jake whispered, placing a hand on Chance's chest. "Let's just be here in the moment. I… I feel scared if I'm honest. However, I wouldn't want to be anywhere but here… Here with you."

"Diddo," Chance said, grasping the hand on his chest. He snorted and shook his head. "About Oliver… I think he'll be fine. He's a good kid. Did you see him when you came in?"

"No, I didn't," Jake said. "I want to hear from Oliver how these three days went."

"I think I heard Feral and Luna took him and the other kids to the movies and the arcade last night."

"Feral? In an arcade?" Jake repeated, sounding stunned before snickering. "Now that's something I want to see."

"Same here. Crud, how things change so fast. If he and Luna tie the knot… he'll be my brother-in-law," Chance said, struggling with telling the last part.

Jake shrugged his shoulder. "And Oliver's uncle."

Chance glanced around and saw their groom-toms and groom-mollies whispering to each other and waiting for the ceremony to start. Suddenly, the music played, and that was their cue. Giving Jake one last squeeze, he went to his respective side while his mate approached the other end. They emerged simultaneously, getting up the small stairs with their respective group.

As they made it to the stage, Chance saw his mother looking ready to cry as Pops held her hand. His extensive family cheered and took up most of the seats. Feral sat between Cale and Conner, nodding his head respectively towards them, with his eyes drifting towards where Luna stood, making him smile. In her stunning dress, Anna struggled to get Jonathan to sit appropriately while shooting signals for Richard to talk to their son afterward. Chance could hear his brother exhaling near him, muttering his son's name.

He had Richard, his sisters, and Felina on his side while Callie, his sisters' mates, stood beside Jake. Everyone looked stunning in their dresses and suits. The officiant was a long-time friend of his mother, an elder Calico Forest tom named Thomas.

Returning to the crowd before them, Chance drifted to the corner. Near the front, he saw Jessica and her mother sitting together wearing beautiful dresses. Their eyes held a flicker of sadness, yet their overall demeanor exuded happiness. Chance could sense their uncertainty about whether Jake wanted them around.

Suddenly, he saw his lover lifting a paw from the corner of his eye. Just in time, he saw Jake subtly wave towards his family. Jake still looked hesitant, though it appeared he was acknowledging his mother and sister. It was quick. Looking back at the girls, Chance could see their surprised expressions before melting into pure happiness.

Now Chance wanted to know what happened to Jake these past few days. However, he sucked his concern and focused on the biggest day of his and Jake's life.

When the music ended, everyone became silent. The officiant raised his paw, making the guests take a seat.

"We're gathered here today for the presence of love and celebration. To witness and honor the union of two souls, Chance Furlong and Jake Clawson," Thomas said.

The old officiant described what this union meant, how they were taking the next step in their lives and no longer can think for themselves as they would now be responsible for each other. He kept going, describing what this partnership meant, to support each other through tough times and sickness.

Once finished, Thomas uses a paw to guide everyone's attention to the big candle near the center, asking who would light it. Chance told him he would, receiving a small candle lit by the officiant's assistant. Lighting the bigger one with the smaller one, Chance returned to his position. Thomas inquired about the orbs of connection, and Jake confirmed he had brought them. Thomas instructed them to come closer and join their hands, which they did, allowing the officiant to place the linked orbs on them and let the ends hang from their arms. The old tom went on about how they were now connected through the orbs, and the candle represented their commitment and love for each other.

"Now, Chance Furlong, do you take Jake Clawson to be your lawfully wedded husband? Will you honor and cherish him, love, trust, and commit to him through joy and pain, sickness and health, and whatever life may throw at you both until death do you part?"

Chance felt a tightness in his chest, but it slowly faded as he focused on Jake. "I do," he said.

"Now, Jake Clawson, do you take Chance Furlong to be your lawfully wedded husband? Will you honor and cherish him, love, trust, and commit to him through joy and pain, sickness and health, and whatever life may throw at you both until death do you part?"

Jake smiled. His hands clenched Chance's paw harder. "I do," he said without hesitancy.

The officiant nodded. "At this time, Chance and Jake will exchange rings," he said, signaling ahead.

Near the beginning of the rows, Oliver held a pillow with two rings. Randy kneeled near Oliver and pointed toward Chance and Jake. Every female melted in glee and awed as the young suited kitten walked down the aisle. Chance would agree with them all with pride in his chest. His son looked so stunning.

Oliver cautiously continued forward, casting wary glances at the cats on either side, and he folded his ears, picking up the pace as he reached the base of the small steps. In a rush, he hurriedly scurried around, meowing and burying his head against Chance's leg, staying out of sight of the wedding guests' view.

Chance wanted to pick his kid up badly, and he could see his mate itching to do the same. With a laugh, Thomas reached down and started scratching Oliver's head before they could move. Oliver slowly looked towards Thomas.

"You're such a brave little lad. Don't worry, we're almost done. Wanna help me make your folks happy?" Thomas whispered in such a warm tone.

Oliver blinked, looking towards Chance and Jake before returning to the officiant and giving a simple nod. Slowly retracting his grip, he returned to hold the pillow with both hands and walked towards where the officiant had designated. With a gentle pat on the head, the officiant whispered something that prompted another nod from Oliver, who then raised the pillow towards Chance and Jake.

Standing back up, the officiant coughed. "The wedding ring symbolizes binding—a symbol of attachment and belonging, not of possession, but of partnership."

Chance grabbed one ring and slid it onto Jake's finger. As the officiant signaled him to read his vows, Chance's mouth grew dry, and he nervously licked his lips.

"How the years pass by, huh, buddy? You know I'm not the greatest at speaking from the heart. Wishing I had a sandbag to punch to show you how much you mean to me," Chance admitted, scratching his ears. He got a good chuckle from the crowd. He smiled and focused on Jake, who waited patiently with a gentle smile. "Aw, crud. Welp. Here's goes…"

"I would love to talk to you about many things. I like many things about you, but let me focus on the most important. You are a kind soul who always humbles me and makes me think about the big picture in life. How you help and care for kats—even the most minor things, like our plants in the garage. You are patient, like a monk. I know it, especially when I push it, and I deserve one of your solid kicks. You are hell-a smart. Sometimes, you say certain things, and it goes over my head, if I'm honest. But I love how invested and passionate you are with things. I love it. I love every aspect of you."

Chance paused, gently kneading the wrapped hand that he held. Getting serious, he grabbed Jake's hand more firmly. "Despite the many setbacks in our lives, you never wavered and kept us afloat during tough times. You are my lifebuoy. Our relationship changed so much throughout the years—we started as buddies and went from best friends to mates, and then we are where we are now. Just know you won't be alone anymore. I know you are my everything, and I hope I can be yours, Jake Clawson."

Jake's eyes were getting watery, though his smile never left him. Nodding his head, he wiped his eyes and let out a breath. Getting himself together, he looked up for a moment before returning to Chance. For a second, it appeared he would go with whatever the officiant would tell him as he grabbed the ring, but he surprised Chance and the officiant when he spoke. "I think back to the first time we met. Sometimes, it surprises me how things change. Me and you, stepping into each other's tail and finally landing in that cruddy cabin. Good thing we did. I think from then on, I knew there was something between us. I wasn't exactly sure what it was…"

"These many years between us, I have grown to know you. Strangers would think you are all muscle and loud, but they would be wrong. It's not those powerful muscles that make you strong but the sheer will of wanting to protect the things you love and care about. You speak from the heart whenever you talk. You never mince your words about things. A genuine guy who makes me wish I could be like them."

"You just told me how you love things about me. Now it's my turn. I love how you run like a bolt of lightning when Scaredy Kat is on. The child-like attitude that constantly looks for something fun to do and tries to brighten our day. It makes me happy how someone so big can be so sweet and gentle. I love everything… even when you snore and wake up like a grumpy kitten," Jake said, chuckling and covering his mouth. He got the rest of the kats to laugh.

Chance blushed, though he couldn't help but smile. He felt complete when he watched Jake insert the ring on his finger.

As everyone settled down, Jake continued. "I can't picture myself without you. We've been partners since the beginning. From academy buddies to partners in the sky, we always were a pair with things. And now, we're entering another partnership. I'll watch your six if you watch mine, Chance Furlong."

The officiant places his hands on Chance's and Jake's wrapped hands. "Chance Furlong and Jake Clawson, having proclaimed your love and commitment to one another in the eyes of these loved ones, and with the power vested in me by the Church and Megakat City, I am so happy to pronounce you husband and husband! You may kiss!" he said, letting go.

Chance clasped Jake's cheek and pulled him close for a deep kiss. It felt so powerful, unlike the other times they had kissed. He felt the sparks and connection as the crowd roared in applause for them. Pulling back, he placed his head on Jake's, hearing each other's purrs and their mindless whispers about how much they meant to each other. When he felt a tug on his pants, he saw Oliver with both hands raised. Snorting, he reached down and pulled his son so he could be in the middle of them. Both he and Jake gave him a quick kiss on the head before the three faced the crowd.

Chance wanted everyone to see his husband and their child—his family!

Soon, they walked down the steps, walking down the aisle as the guests cheered and threw a range of different color petals at them. It felt like he was floating as they kept going, exiting the room and hearing the kats following them down.

As they kept going, they soon found themselves outside, near the small garden attached to the building. The hired help guided them towards the beautifully set area where the photographers took pictures of the married couple, family, friends, and anybody who wanted to be in it. Soon, it calmed down, with kats beginning to leave, and only immediate family and friends stayed with the rest, who were already going and heading to the reception area.

"We'll get the party started at Mom's place," Jamie shouted, waving at the remaining party as Andy led her toward their car. Hope and Nate followed close behind, jumping into the backseats.

"See you guys soon!" Chance called out, waving back at his sister. Putting a hand over his eyes, he whistled and glanced around. "Eh. Close enough to spring."

"It was perfect," Jake said, appearing at Chance's side. He wrapped an arm and purred, leaning into Chance. "Wouldn't you agree… husband?"

Liking the sound of that, Chance grinned and pushed his husband closer. "Ready to be a Clawson-Furlong?"

"Ready as I'll ever be."

They closed in, giving each other a quick kiss and nuzzling. Chance shifted his attention to the nearby tree in the center, seeing Oliver playing with Jonathan as they ran around. While the children ran, Richard and Anna stood close by, engaged in conversation. Luna softly scolds Conner for messing up his tie. Both Feral and Cale sat together, keeping a close eye on them. Amidst the conversation between Callie, Felina, and his parents, Freya's cries filled the area while Pops comforted her with an amused expression. And the Pastmaster, perched on one of the thick tree branches, eyeing Callie like a prize trophy.

"Wait, what? CRUD!" Chance roared after his senses kicked in. Everybody jerked, looking at him with confusion, unaware of the gnome above them. His husband's audible gasp confirmed that he grasped the situation, and his footsteps echoed closely behind him. Chance waved his hands at them. "Get away from the tree now!"

Feral, Felina, and Freya were the only ones to shake their confusion, sharply glancing toward where the Pastmaster was. They each attempted to move their closest party away from the coming danger, but the red gnome had already raised his watch, a purple and dark glow appearing.

"I command everyone to halt," the Pastmaster shouted.

A quick bolt of energy sprang out and hit everyone. Every person nearby froze, clocks appearing and surrounding their body like a belt. Unable to jump in time, Chance's body abruptly transitioned from a sprint to a crawl. He was still moving, though at a snail's pace, with his surrounding clocks ticking and mimicking his slowness.

The Pastmaster sneered, jumping down and landing between them. His attention remains on Callie, getting closer and stroking her hand. "Beautiful as ever, Callista. My dear, seeing you at these…" He waved dismissively in Chance's and Jake's direction. "…union. It made me crave your hand even more. Look. We even have guests to witness it. However, not here. Those blasted Swat Kats won't be able to stop it this time where we are going."

With a flash of his watch, the Pastmaster summoned a massive circle around them. He cackled, snatching Callie's hand. "First, our wedding, and then we'll celebrate our union with the destruction of this blasted city!"

The last thing Chance saw was the warmth of the sun being covered, taken over by darkness. He saw everyone's fluttering, with the youngest eyes closing first to the oldest. Chance felt his body giving up on him, though he snarled and attempted to stay awake when he saw his son falling asleep. It boiled him, wanting to move in and crush the ugly midget's skull in. However, he couldn't do anything or move. The only thing he could do was shift his eyes.

Move! Move, damn it! Chance repeated to himself.

The only other kat remaining awake was Feral, who stood frozen, having Cale close while reaching for Luna and Conner. His frozen, tense face remained on him as his eyes shifted with desperation. His eyes connected with Chance, though they closed.

Chance's vision darkened, with the remaining slit of what he could see being a black patch of greenery and a castle in the distance.

Then he was out.