A Friendly Hustle

by Blkdragon7

A few years after the Missing Mammal & Nighthowler cases, Nick and Judy are officially mates. They have managed to keep it a secret until they discover that their friends Lizz Fangmeyer and Mike Wolford are also in a mate level relationship. To help their friends, Nick and Judy draw Lizz and Mike to a restaurant to reveal their knowledge and their own relationship.

37. Chapter 37

Here is the 37th installment. Hope you enjoy.

Remember to share the love. Review and Fav. It is the life blood of every writer to know you are enjoying their work. I also want to thank everyone who has Fav'd, followed, and reviewed this little project. I know that isn't much, but to me, it's huge. Even as a writer of original fiction, that you enjoy this means a lot to me as an author. You can check out my original work and link to my Blog, Scribblings, where a lot of it lives by hopping over to ( Direct: dcballard (remove the spaces) because the forwarding is misbehaving.)

If you enjoy this, and you are not also reading my original Log Entries series over on my Blog. Why aren't you? (takes a Nick-esk pose of hurt) Also. I am now posting them on AO3, so you have even less excuse. It's free, ORIGINAL fiction. "An original story told through the log entries of the pilot and captain of an experimental star ship."

Sadly, I do not own and thus can claim no rights to Zootopia or its characters. They belong to Disney.

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Flashback The tazer incident.

An incessant screeching penetrated Nick's sleeping brain. After a few moments, he recognized it and uncurled from around his bunny enough to reach for the offending sound. As he fumbled, not opening his eyes, he missed and knocked the phone off the nightstand to continue screaming from the floor. Nick grumbled with a growl, being on the floor made the sound more distant and slightly muffled by the thick carpet, but no less insistent. Nick tried to ignore it by curling back around Judy and allow himself to be pulled back into sleep.

Judy stirred as her red furred blanket and heater shifted and grumbled. She recognized the sound of their alarm and sighed herself. Dragging herself up into wakefulness with difficulty. She shifted and took a deep breath of Nick's scent surrounding her and filling her with feelings of safety, love, and contentment. Pressing her forehead against his chest to listen to his strong heartbeat for a moment before giving a yawn. "Come on, Nick. Time to get up." Groaning as he curled tighter around her. "I know love, but we have to get ready and get to the train."

Nick grumbled then gave a wide yawn. "Ah, come on Carrots. We've got two whole weeks off. Surely we can catch a later train."

"Nope. We have to get there and pick up the rental, and I want to be there in time for lunch so we can eat before we talk to mom and dad."

Groaning, Nick uncurled. "Fine. But I refuse to be perky, and reserve the right to take a nap on the train." Kissing the top of her head as Judy stretched out with her own large yawn.

"Fine. Not as if you don't nap on the train anyway." Rolling off the bed onto her feet. "Come on, lazy fox. We gotta get moving." Judy picked up the phone and turned off the alarm. "I'm in the shower. Get your tail moving."

"Slave driver!"

Judy laughed as she entered the bathroom stripping off her panties and tank top she'd slept in as she made a whip cracking sound towards Nick. Nick himself was on his side, supporting his head on his paw, watching Judy. His grin as she looked back left her tail vibrating from the hungry look in his eyes. "Niiick! We do not have time, as much as I want to."

His grin growing. "I know. Doesn't mean I can't at least enjoy the view. Besides, who took her panties off while pointing that sweat tail in my direction? Hmm? You're just trying to tease me and get me in trouble."

Judy giggled. "I would never tempt you like that, Nick."

Nick gasped. "Lies! You are a temptress of the finest caliber. A cute, cunning, rabbit succubus. That's what you are. An insatiable pleasure demon."

Laughing as she started the shower, Judy put her hips to the side and looked over her shoulder. She didn't even flinch at his use of cute. They had long since moved past that, and at their state of relationship, he had earned it's occasional use. "Well, if that is true, then you are a lost cause. Aren't' you?"

Nick let out a barked laugh. "Ha! Oh, honey bunny. I have been a lost cause since the very day we met."

Nick pulled himself upright and checked the time with a groan. He grabbed his robe and walked to the kitchen, starting the coffee pot. He'd get a tea later at the train station, but to get them both going at the ungodly hour they were waking up required coffee.

Hearing the shower turn off he walked back to their room. Watching her dry off for a few moments until she noticed him. "Niiick! What is with you this morning?"

Chuckling as he walked past, running his tail across the back of her legs. "Can't a fox enjoy the sight of his mate in the fur? I mean, I have the most beautiful bunny on the planet, in my apartment, strutting around in just her fur, and you want me not to enjoy the view? I am many things, Fluff, but I am only a poor fox. I don't know if such self control as you demand, exists."

Shaking her head with a smile. "Just take your shower. I'll fix us a snack, and we can get something more substantial at the station while we wait."

The shower started as he dipped himself into the warm spray, Nick smiled to himself. "Sounds good!"

Judy got dressed quickly, then checked the bags they had packed the night before. Once she confirmed everything was in order, Judy headed to the kitchen and started to cook up a couple of chicken sausages for them to share with two cups of coffee and glasses and juice.

Drawn from the shower by the scent of chicken sausages, Nick grinned as he walked into the kitchen. Walking up behind Judy as she danced to some unheard tune while she cooked the sausage. Pulling her to his chest and nibbling on her ear. "My gods. How did I get so lucky to find the only bunny in the world that enjoys meat?"

Judy giggled and shivered as he nibbled her ear. "Niiick! Behave! Naughty fox." Pulling away from him and moving the sausages to plates. "As for what you did? You scammed me out of twenty Z's for a Jumbo-pop."

"Ah yes. I'm pretty sure I've paid you back for that."

Judy hummed, handing him his plate. "Maybe, but you're still deep, deep in debt with me."

Sitting at their table and nodding his thanks for the coffee and juice. "You're keeping track?"

"I'm female, Nick. Of course I'm keeping track. You're still at least forty hours of parking duty in the arrears." Sighing as she chewed a bite. "As for the meat. Well, you know quite well how hard I can hit."

Shaking his head. "Yeah. Never challenging you to that punch force game again. I had to actually take you up on hitting the gym and such after that. A bunny punching harder than a fox, not allowed."

"Now we both hit as hard as a wolf like Grizolli."

"That was a bet I enjoyed winning."

"Oh yeah... You still owe me half that too!"

"No! I used that for our anniversary date as partners."

Judy tapped the last of her sausage on the end of her fork against her two front teeth, acting as if thinking. "Hmm..."

"Oh, come on Judy. We split the sparing punishment take. Plus, now when someone is punished with that, they have to spar with one or both of us. That really earned us both a lot of respect on the job."

"Okay. I can see letting you slide on that bet. You are right though." An alarm going off on her phone. "Nick. That's your alarm. Go finish getting ready."

Munching a sausage whole. "Aye, aye, Captain!" giving her a salute and putting their plates in the sink before heading for their room.

Five minutes later Judy had finished the dishes and Nick walked out wearing his signature green shirt and khaki slacks to Judy's long suffering eye roll.

Nick shrugged. "What? They're comfortable."

Judy shook her head in resignation. "Whatever. Move it, fox."

They collected their bags, triple checked that they had their phones and chargers, as well as a battery bank to charge both phones if needed. Judy then summoned a Zuber while Nick moved the bags to the curb. Once at Zootopia Central Train station, they made their way into the building and down to their platform.

Judy and Nick walked up to the ticket agent, an older goat, and she pulled up their tickets on her phone. The agent looking down at them. "Ticket please."

Judy smiled and held up her phone. "Here you go. I really appreciate being able to buy them online and just scan on my phone instead of paper tickets."

Scanning her ticket with a beep and a green light indicating she was good. "It is a popular new feature. Better for the environment with so much less paper used." Looking up at Nick. "Ticket?"

Judy spoke up. "Here." Holding up her phone again.

The goat frowned. "I'm sorry?"

"His ticket is here. We're traveling together, so I have both."

Scanning the ticket and getting a similar beep and green light. "You sure, Ma'am? If he's forcing you to..."

Judy flipped her badge out of her purse as Nick flipped his wallet open. "We're ZPD, Sir. Nick is my partner on the force. If anyone is forcing anyone into anything, you have it backwards." Grabbing his tie. "Right Nick?" Pulling him along by his tie. Nick chuckled and gave his patented two finger salute as they walked past, the goat watching them go with a look of utter confusion.

Once on the platform level, they sought out a proper breakfast and opted for strong coffee from one of the small cafes that existed in the area. They had two hours before their train would arrive, and at least forty five after that before it was to leave. They got there early so they weren't rushing at the last minute, and to compensate for a sluggish fox, though even Judy admitted, he had improved.

They both had spicy veggie rolls and split a large order of fried crickets. Nick looked across the table at his fiance, shaking his head at that thought. "I know I've been to the farm a few times now, but what can I expect this time?"

Judy shrugged. "I don't know, Nick. I might actually be as nervous as you. I'm not just bringing home my partner, but my partner. You're my fiance now, and I haven't told them over the phone because we don't do that. We are supposed to bring them home and do a proper introduction. Not that you haven't already been introduced..."

"Just not as your significant other. Your mate. The male that has been defiling their perfect angel."

Judy tried to suppress a chuckle and failed. "Oh, gods. Nick! Do you have to put it like that? You make it sound like my parents put me up on a pedestal."

"Judy... Your parents put all of the J litter up on a special pedestal. You were their first, and I've heard the stories. James' mate had to run a near gauntlet through your mother, aunts and older siblings."

"That's just normal."

"What about that buck Jamie brought home."

Judy frowned. "Yeah, but we were right about him though."

"I just worry that while they have let my past remain there as your partner on the force. That it will be held against me as your mate."

Judy smiled up at Nick, though it was forced, and her voice sounding less then convinced."I'm sure it will be fine."

Nick smiled and chuckled. "You've got the face almost down, Carrots. But you have to do more than just say it and put on the face. You have to believe it, no matter what, and on that you failed. That said. I will hope with you that it all goes fine, and if not... Well, that's why we have the rental and Sharla's phone number."

Judy nodded and held in a sniffle. "I want this to go right so badly Nick. I've seen so many of my sisters and brothers bring their mates home. I've seen the acceptance of it. I want to claim my sapphires."

Nick moved around next to her and pulled her to his side, Judy turning her face into his chest. "It is going to be fine, Fluff. No matter what happens, it's going to be okay. I know you want those stones, and while they sound beautiful and all, I don't need them to tell me that I'm meant for you." Nick slipped on a mask while she wasn't looking, letting himself believe everything he said, for her sake and the moment. "I mean, you've already put up with me as a partner on the force for longer than even I expected me to last. You've put up with me as more than that, as the most important person in my life, bar none, for almost eight months now, across both of our birthdays. I would walk through any version of hell for you and only you."

Judy smiled as she wiped her eyes. "I know that Nick. I've been doing reading, as you suggested." Taking a deep, shaky breath and sighing. "Thank you Nick. You always know what to say."

"That's just part of being the pinnacle of perfection that is me." Nick gave her a kiss between her ears and then a hard glare at a passerby that gave them a disgusted look.

Judy slapped his chest lightly. "Dumb fox. Hardly perfect, but perfect as far as I am concerned."

"In the end, Carrots, that is all that matters." Getting up and pulling her with him. "Come on. Lets head down to our actual platform and mammal watch. Then we'll grab one of those smoothies from down there just before we board."

Grinning, Judy hopped slightly. "That sounds perfect."

Ten minutes later they had obtained a pair of sodas from a machine and a position on a high bench that let them overlook most of the area. They quickly started a game of guess the mammal, which devolved into them picking a mammal and making up the most outlandish story for them; why they were there, where they were going, etc... This resulted in many mammals looking at them in confusion and other emotions as the rabbit and fox clung to each other in fits of tear inducing laughter.

Judy pointed off into the mass of mammals. "You see him there? Smaller wolf. Grey with a white eye-patch?"

Nick searched until he found the mammal in question. "Okay. Got him. You sure that's a him?"

Grinning, Judy nodded. "That's part of the story. His name is Jane, because he was the runt and his father hated him. He spent his teenage years working out, studying, and doing all he could to prove that he was good enough for his father. To prove that he was an alpha, but his father never even gave him credit enough to be a beta."

"Ouch. That'd be rough."

"I'm not done. Hush. I was quiet on your last story."

"Sorry."

"Okay. Now. When he graduated with his law degree and passed the bar, his dad didn't even bother to show up. Not even a card. So he left home, started bleaching the patch around his eye and used documents he took from home to create his own company. He worked for a decade and finally destroyed his fathers company, never letting his father know who it was. He attended family functions, the weddings of his siblings, everything, all while driving the family business into ruin. Their father never told anyone that things were bad.

Finally when he was buying the company for pennies on the Z, he made sure the whole family was invited. He even showed up with them. None of them liked him and all looked down on him, teasing and abusing him whenever he was there because he was small. So, you can imagine the surprise when he walked in with them and then sat down at the central spot of the company they were selling out to."

"Oh, that's cold. I like it!"

"Okay. What you got? We have time for one more before we have to grab our smoothies and get on the train."

"Hmm... Let me see..." Nick looked over the throng of mammals. "Ah! Got one." Pointing. "The ticket agent, the one that was kinda rude."

"Okay. This should be good."

"In truth, he's actually a sheep, and an orphan. He never grew in his wool due to exposure to chemicals as a baby when his family was killed in an accident with the chemical truck. All very comic book, but without powers or anything, just chemical scaring. It also scared his face so he had to have facial reconstructive surgery in his late teens. However, the doctor messed up because he didn't have any wool, they thought he was a goat and made his face that way. Because of this, he became a thief. He wears a wool suit, but never worries about being caught because all he has to do is burn the suit and walk away. They're looking for a sheep, and he's a goat. For that matter, when he does jobs as himself and leaves DNA behind, he's again not worried because they'll be looking for a sheep.

After a while he got in with darker organizations as he got better and started doing work on contract. Safer that way, you don't have to worry about fencing what you steal. He then started doing hits and has a set of claws he uses during those crimes to further confuse things. Injuries looked like a large predator, DNA evidence says sheep. Who's going to suspect the goat ticket booth guy?"

Judy nodded. "Not bad. Let's grab those smoothies. The train should be here any minute and I want to get good seats."

They walked out of the smoothie shop just as their train arrived and started to disgorge it's passengers. Swiftly moving through the mammals disembarking, they got on board and found some nice window seats, Nick stowing their bags.

Judy leaned into Nick and he looked out the window. "Hey, Slick."

Turning all his attention to her, Nick smiled. "What's up Fluff? You okay?"

"I'm actually wondering if you are okay. I mean. This is a huge step, after everything we have been through. I mean, if my family reacts badly."

"Judy." Pulling her into a hug. "There is nothing they can do that will make me leave you. My fear is that you will come to your senses and leave me. That when we get there, they're going to have another buck, or five... I mean really? What was with that? Anyway... That they'll have one lined up to meet you, and he will actually be that perfect mammal that sweeps you off your feet." Kissing between her ears. "Even if you do that, I will never leave you, Judy. I promise you that much."

Judy gave him a light elbow to the ribs. "That's not going to happen Nick. I picked you and if you've been doing your reading like I have. You would now that while we might play the field while we're single, once we make a choice, we don't change our minds. Just like you foxes. The only difference being that if I lose you."

"I know. You'd mourn me, but would eventually be able to take another mate. I'm okay with that. I know you want me to promise that I would do the same. Find a way to live beyond losing you, but I can't do that Judy. It just isn't in me. I may be able to keep living, because I promised you that, I might even find a place where I could say I was marginally happy. I will never take another mate after you."

"Believe it or not, I feel like I'm the same way. Maybe a one night stand to scratch an itch, but I just cannot see myself binding emotionally to another mammal."

"A one night stand? Really?"

Judy giggled. "Hey. A rabbit has needs, and power tools only do so much."

"Insatiable! Yet you managed to restrain yourself this morning."

"I am not going to tell you it was easy." Giving his tail a long stroke and grinning at the shiver she could feel travel through him. "But we have places we have to be."

Groaning as he shifted in his seat. "Evil rabbit."

"Sexy fox."

They rode in comfortable silence as they watched the city fade behind the hills until both their ears turned at the sound of a disgusted scoff. Turning, they found a rabbit buck with disgust written all over his face. Judy sat up. "Can I help you?"

"You can explain what you are doing with that fox. Is he holding something over you? Do you need help? If so, we can help you."

Judy groaned and looked up at Nick. "Why do they always assume I'm some helpless doe that can't take care of herself. Do they think the contented smile is pretend or something?"

Nick shrugged in response. "I don't know, Carrots."

"Shut up fox! How dare you use such a derogatory term for her. Disgusting pelt."

Judy frowned. "Well, now you just went too far." She hopped down and walked up to the buck who was only slightly taller than she was. "Now, you are going to apologize for that, and I won't be turning you over to the PD at the next stop."

"What?"

"Apologize to him, sir. His name is Nickolas Wilde, and he is an officer of the ZPD. You will apologize and go back about your business, or I will place you under arrest and turn you over to the police at the next stop for processing."

A doe walked up behind him, seeing him squared off with Judy and gasps. "Jacob, what are you doing?" Grabbing his arm.

"Not now Greraldine." Shrugging off her paw. "This doesn't concern you, doe. Though there is a doe in front of me that needs to know her place."

Geraldine grabbed his arm again. "Jacob, don't. Please. We're going to meet my family. I know who she is, you don't want to do this. Leave her be."

Pulling his arm away again he turned and shoved her back, causing her to fall. "Do as you're told, doe! You're clearly getting above your place." Turning back to Judy. "Besides, that must be your problem too. Don't know your place either. That fox walks all over you I'm sure."

Nick laughed with a smirk. "Buddy, you done fucked up. Whatever you do, don't put your paws on her. You'll regret it."

Glaring past Judy at Nick, he scoffed. "What? That a threat fox? I'll have your tail in jail in as soon as we get to the next stop."

Judy looked down, took a deep breath and looked back up at the buck. "The only one unaware of their place here is you. I really hate bucks like you. Think your the gods gift to does. Probably coming up a bit short in the dick department, so you dominate and abuse your does to make you feel like more of a buck. You're just pathetic." Looking past him, Judy found Geraldine. "You can do so much better than this piece of dickless crap." Returning her vision back to Jacob and his hateful glare. "I'm Judy Hopps, Officer of the ZPD. You've already done enough for me to place you under arrest."

He laughed. "HA! Not as if I haven't heard that one before. You think I'm intimidated just because you're a gray rabbit and claim to be that insane doe? She's nothing but a publicity stunt taking credit for the work of real officers." Nick hissed and flinched behind them from his seat. "Must be why you hang around that pelt. That Fox is just as much a stunt as she is, and neither of you are them. So don't bother with more threats. I'm not buying."

Nick shook his head. "Your funeral, buddy."

Jacob glared up at Nick. "I said shut it, pelt. I will deal with you in a minute. Once I teach this little uppity doe her place."

Judy smiled at him sweetly. "Oh? How you going to do that? I already told you who I was."

"Ha! You have to show me your badge to prove it, otherwise it means nothing. Even if you have one, I still wouldn't believe you. Seen a few idiot does like you trying to ride her tail or use that they look similar to her to protect themselves."

Judy growled. "If they're doing it against rabbits like you, and you've abused them the way you clearly abuse Geraldine, then I look forward to seeing you try and..." Judy never got to finish her statement as he slapped her across the same cheek as her scars.

"Shut your damn doe mouth! You talk way too much. All of you do. I'll be seeing you bent over and loving every second of it by the time I'm done with you." Judy's face was turned to the side from the slap, the sting causing a single tear to fall. She held her paw up to Nick, a finger up, stopping him. Seeing the tear, Jacob laughed. "Ha! Crying already little doe? Who's pathetic now?"

Judy looked past him. "Geraldine, we'll talk in a just a moment." Nick noticed several other mammals watching as they were standing in the walkway, and shook his head as Judy turned back to face Jacob. "Now then. What's your last name?"

"Leapson. What's it to you? You'll be calling my first name tonight."

"No, I really don't think I will be."

Balling his fist, Jacob took another swing at Judy, which she ducked under, grabbing the offending arm and spinning him around against the wall, the arm he tried to use to punch her pinned behind his back. "Well now. Jacob Leapson, you are under arrest." Then metalic chink of cuffs almost echoing through the train car as Nick handed them to Judy. "Thank you, Nick."

Nick smiled with a chuckle. "No problem, Fluff. It isn't as if either of us didn't warn this idiot." Stepping over to Geraldine and Kneeling down. "Hi, Geraldine. I'm Nick Wilde, ZPD. Are you alright? Are you hurt at all?"

Geraldine shook her head. "No. Not the first time I've been clumsy like that."

Judy looked behind her. "Did she just?" A very non-bunny growl exiting her throat as she turned back to Jacob. "Oh, you are so lucky. Give me the other arm."

Jacob's face twisted in rage. "Fuck you! Stupid doe. I'll give you the arm alright." He swung his arm back trying to elbow Judy. She sidestepped, allowing him to spin, and swept his leg, riding him down to the floor.

Judy shook her head as Jacob was trying to catch his breath, having it knocked from him as he hit the floor. "Moron. I take down criminals as large as African bull elephants at least once a month, and the likes of tigers and bears on a damn near weekly basis." Pulling his free arm behind him and finishing cuffing him. "You really think your wannabe tough buck ass is going to be even a struggle? Now. As I was saying. Jacob Leapson, you are under arrest. You have the right to remain silent. Anything you say, can and will be used against you in a court of law. You have a right to have an attorney present during questioning, if you cannot afford one, one will be provided upon request. Do you understand these rights as I have read them to you?"

"Fuck you! I'll have your badge for excessive force, entrapment, and anything else I can pin on you! Get off me you fucking freak inter-slut! Just like when you stupid Hopps took the blame for the tagging of Judge Gheretts car. HA! You will never pin anything on me, just like you were never able to get the cops to believe that your brother wasn't the one that did the school explosion in senior year. Me and my brothers share a bear over the success of pinning that on you Hopps every year. I'll be adding getting your fired to my list of accomplishments. Our lawyers will never let this get anywhere. Stupid Hopps, you and everyone else in town. You never could get anything to stick to us, and this won't be any different."

Judy shook her head slowly. "Oh, Jacob, Jacob, Jacob... You're the one that took the first swing. You're the one that was harassing my partner and I while using speciesist slurs and vulgarity. I'd have actually let you walk away, but you decided you had to be the big buck and prove just how big a male you are. Now look at you. Assault on an officer, who actually identified herself to you. Assault against Geraldine over there, and I'm sure after we go through the tapes, a few more charges will show up."

"What tapes?"

"Didn't you know? Oh, so sad for you. All these trains are equipped with high definition video and audio recording. It's in the fine print of your ticket, and unfortunately for you also, those videos are stored for a full year. Longer if a crime is known to have occurred, such as you slapping and then trying to punch a ZPD officer."

He was silent after that. Judy lifted him up as the security guard for the train walked up. "Officers?"

Judy handed Jacob off. "One second. I need to get my ID from my purse."

Nick looked back and held it up for her. "Already got it for you."

Smiling, Judy took her ID from Nick and presented it to the guard. "Thanks Nick. Here you go, sir. If you would place him in the holding cell and alert the BBPD, I'll take charge of him there and hand him off to them."

The guard chuckled. "Not a problem ma'am. I'm sure they'll have a car waiting at the station for you when we get there, which is still about two hours since this isn't an express. Got a good four stops before Bunnuburrow." Handing back her ID.

Judy smiled. "Thank you." The guard took Jacob by his shoulder and led him away toward the rear of the train. Judy turned to see Nick sitting on the floor talking to a crying Geraldine.

xxx A few moments previously. Nick and Geraldine xxx

Geraldine shook her head. "No. Not the first time I've been clumsy like that."

Judy looked behind her. "Did she just?" A very non-bunny growl exiting her throat as she turned back to Jacob. "Oh, you are so lucky. Give me the other arm."

Nick looked at Geraldine with concern. "Geraldine. Both Judy and I saw what happened. That may be the excuse that he has trained you to use when he hurts you at home, but it won't fly this time."

Geraldine started to cry. "What's going to happen to him? He's going to be so mad at me."

Nick sighed and gently laid a paw on her shoulder. "What is going to happen to him is entirely on him, but it isn't anything you have to worry about any more." Glancing back as Judy rode Jacob down to the floor. "You'll notice that his attempts to bully someone like Judy has him flat on his face. He's going to be going to jail. I need to ask you a few questions. I want you to know you are not in trouble in any way. I just need to ask these so we can fully understand what happened. How long has he been hitting you?"

Looking up at Nick through her tears Geraldine shook her head. "He just gets mad sometimes. He doesn't mean it. He always apologizes."

"Then promises that he won't do it again, right? Just to do it again. And again. Right? Promises how much he loves you, that he can't live without you."

Geraldine nodded as she sobbed. "Yes. Sometimes it isn't too bad, sometimes I get a black eye. Especially if he's been drinking. I love him so much though."

Nick could tell she wasn't being fully truthful. "Do you have kits with him yet?"

Shaking her head. "No. My family is really strict, they'd disown me if I had a litter before we were married. He really wanted them. Accidentally threw away my suppressors, but I was going to do that anyway because I got an implant. I didn't tell him that."

"Because you knew that throwing them away was no accident, didn't you."

Geraldine nodded and looked down at her paws. "Yeah. I saw him check them before doing it."

Nick handed her a handkerchief, and then held out Judy's ID when he heard her talking to the guard. "Already got it for you."

"Thank you." Geraldine wiped her eyes and blew her nose. "How do you know what he's done?"

"I'm a ZPD officer. You're not the first mammal I've met who is being abused by their significant other. Species, sexual orientation, doesn't matter. There's always a Jacob out there. The question is, do you want to keep living that way? Or do you want to find a way out?"

Judy stepped up behind Nick as Jacob was led away. "Hi Geraldine." Putting out a paw. "Judy Hopps."

Geraldine shook the offered paw. "Geraldine Henderson."

"Nice to meet you Geraldine. How about you collect your things and have a seat with us. We can talk a bit more. We'll ensure no one harasses you"

"That would be nice."

Judy smiled and gripped Nick's shoulder so they could talk privately for an instant.

J: Think she'll be one of the lucky ones?

N: Not sure, I hope so. She seems nice and once he was taken away, and not focused on her, she opened to the truth quickly. I think she was held with fear. If she can get past that, she'll be fine and free of him.

J: Lets hope so.

Judy smiled at Nick. "Nick, how about you help her gather her things. We'll hold his things too, to hand off when we get to our stop."

Nick nodded. "Sounds good." Standing and then reaching down to Geraldine to help her up. "Lead the way my good lady." Giving a deep bow causing both doe's to giggle.

"Nick, you are such a goof."

A few minutes later, Nick had Geraldine and Jacobs' suitcases stowed.

Judy looked across to the seats opposite her and Nick. "So, Geraldine. I overheard some of what you and Nick were talking about. You got an implant but didn't tell Jacob about it. I'm assuming that was just before or after he threw away your suppressors."

"Just before. He was constantly pressuring me to have a litter so I started the suppressors, but when I started noticing them missing I got worried. So I went with the sure thing. I had actually just gotten back from the doctor and having it done when I caught him throwing them away. I never told him, and this was months ago. He's gotten worse and more frustrated. But I couldn't risk having kits before I'm married."

Judy nodded. "I've known a few families like that. I've also seen it drive does to marry a less than ideal mate."

Geraldine looked down at her paws. "I'm one of the oldest, and not married yet. My whole family keeps asking and pressuring me. I want to, but they keep sending real jerks at me. Jacob was so nice at first. I was so happy that I finally found someone, but then he started to get angry. Saying hurtful things about me not being a real doe, once we were intimate."

"Because you didn't get pregnant."

"Yes. Then it got worse."

Nick nodded. "Well. As Judy said early on. There are so many other bucks out there. You don't have to settle for some abusive prick."

"I've only been able to meet those that my parents have arranged for me. Jacob was the last one."

Judy smiled darkly. "I suppose the ones prior to Jacob were like him now, just right out the gate. Never a concern about you as a mammal, other than getting you to pump out kits for them?"

Geraldine laughed. "Damn, Judy. You sound like you have personal experience in that."

"Every time I return home they try to set me up on at least one blind date. I finally stopped going on them. We're heading home to make an announcement which will finally bring an end to the endless train of bucks."

Nick smiled as a thought occurred to him. "Geraldine, there is almost guaranteed to be a buck lined up for Judy. Would you want to cut in?"

Laughing, Geraldine shook her head. "Oh gods. No. Thank you though. I need to get my head right. I need to get his stuff out of the apartment. I'm not even sure if I'm allowed to do that."

Nick nodded with a wider smile. "Well, you are, to an extent. You can't damage his stuff, but you can pack it up and stuff it in a storage unit. You'll have to pay for it until he gets out and claims it, or his family does on his behalf. But once that happens, you can close the account. Let them know when you rent the unit that it is to store your ex's things and they'll set you up."

Judy nodded. "You can then demand he or his family pay you the cost of the unit, for however long you have to hold it. The cost of things like a TV, or anything else you keep would be deducted from the cost of storing his stuff. I think it's 5 or 8 years you have to hold things. Confer with an actual lawyer to be sure."

"That's fair. I'll still move. I can't afford the apartment on my own, but I'm sure the manager will let me move over to a one bedroom I can afford. There's a storage place just next door too."

Judy looked at Geraldine with concern. "You seem to be accepting this rather quickly."

Geraldine sighed. "I've been trying to figure out a way to get away from him for months. But there was always the threats and the proclamations of love. Him talking about getting you over his bed by tonight just showed me that... He's cheated on me three times that I know of. I was hoping that my family wouldn't approve to give me a hard excuse to break it off with him. I'm not strong like you. I don't know how you do it."

Judy smiled. "It is a mentality of refusing to accept less than I deserve. Like this lunk." Giving Nick a playful elbow.

Geraldine's eyes went wide. "Wait. You were serious about that? Oh, wow! I could never. I'd be too scared to be with another species. They're so different. Even a Jackrabbit would be strange."

"Well... The first thing about being with another species is communication. Love will get you a long way, but if you don't talk through those differences, you'll never make it."

Nick laughed. "Oh gods. Ain't that the truth. I am hearing a repeat of the same advice we've given a dozen times over." Looking across to Geraldine. "It's a function of every relationship. You have to communicate, especially when you're angry or upset about something. If you do that, then wherever you find love, you can make it work. Though being in an inter-species relationship has its own special challenges."

"And rewards too. You have no idea how heavenly it is to fall asleep wrapped up in fox."

"I could say the same about being curled around the most beautiful rabbit on the planet. Nothing personal Geraldine, you're good looking for sure, but I'm biased where this one is concerned." Giving Judy a kiss between her ears.

Geraldine giggled. "Oh my. It's just. His teeth and claws..."

Judy smiled. "Are just parts of him, like our buck teeth are, and those I assure you can do a lot of damage too. I keep mine shorter due to my job. You take a punch and break a tooth once, and only once. But that's a story for another time."

"Oh! I was wondering about that, but didn't want to ask. That makes sense."

Nick dug through his wallet and grinned when he found what he was looking for. "Here. This is the card to a domestic abuse support group. They can help you with resources, such as getting out of your lease and into a new place. They will recommend that you not stay in the same complex if you can avoid it. Safer if he doesn't know where to find you right away. Where cheap and secure storage units are. Even help doing the moving and packing. They're also always looking for helpers to help others in such situations, once you're safe and in a good place yourself."

Taking the card, Geraldine teared up again. "Thank you. Thank you both. I guess it is a good thing Jacob couldn't handle being stood up to."

Judy smiled. "Your best thanks is to get yourself right, in a safe place, and find a mate that cares for you as you, who loves you without condition. Who supports you instead of tearing you down."

Geraldine nodded. "I think I can do that. But does such a mammal exist?"

Judy hugged Nick and grinned. "I know that for certain, but you can't have him. He's mine."

With a grin of her own, Geraldine laughed. "Well, in that case, I will have to find my own."

They chatted about other things and eventually fell into a comfortable quiet until the Bunnyborrow station announcement came over the PA.

Attention Passengers. We will be arriving at Bunnyburrow station in ten minutes. Please prepare to disembark and stand carefully as the train slows to a stop at the station.

Nick stood up and stretched. "Alright. Carrots I'll go retrieve our friend, if you two get our bags ready. When I get back with him, We'll trade and you can take him and I'll deal with the bags."

Judy nodded with a smile. "Sounds good." Looking over at Geraldine. "You going to be okay in his presence for a short time?"

Geraldine nodded. "I will, with you two here. I've got nothing to fear from him."

Nick nodded. "Okay, I'll be back." Giving a spooky waver to his voice as he walked away.

Judy laughed. "Such a goof."

Geraldine and Judy pulled their bags out and organized them, just finishing up as Nick came back with a growling rabbit in paw-cuffs. "You have not right to do this!"

Nick laughed lightly. "In fact, we have every right to do this buddy. You assaulted a ZPD officer, after she identified herself. Even then, it would have been assault, as well as the assault two ZPD officers witnessed you commit against Geraldine. But go ahead, keep talking, as I told you from the beginning, I am recording all of this in my capacity as an officer. You have the right to remain silent, your choice to keep talking is not my fault."

"Fuck you, pelt."

Nick pushed him forward and held him facing away from Judy and Geraldine. "He won't shut up. Set your phone to record, Carrots."

Judy chuckled. "Oh, this is going to be fun." Pulling out her phone and activating her voice recorder. "Okay Nick, I'm recording." Nick stopped his phone and saved the file to the encrypted ZPD folder on his phone. Judy then took hold of Jacob, Turning him and pointing him towards the doors as the train slowed noticeably. She managed to hold him up as he tried to fall forward. "Nice try, Jacob, but I'm not going to let you take a nosedive to try and claim that I abused you. I'll remind you again, that there are cameras with high-def audio and video recording. So please, stop."

"Fuck you! There are no cameras! I asked the guard. He said he didn't know what I was talking about."

Judy shook her head and looked directly into the camera, smiled and shrugged. "Believe what you want, your choice to add more trouble to yourself."

Jacob continued to curse and insult Nick, Judy, and Geraldine. Cursing her and going on about how much he hated her and how she would regret it once he got out. Nick and Judy looking at each other and cringing, knowing that he was just adding charges to himself. They even kept warning him to shut up for his own good, which only angered him more. Nick carried all their bags but one duffle that Geraldine insisted carrying herself.

Once the train stopped and they stepped off, Jacob resisted the whole way and finding it difficult to not step forward as Judy held him in such a way that to keep his balance, he had to move the direction she wanted him to. This only angered him more and resulted in him making further threats and cursing.

The BPD sheriff walked up. "Judy. Nice to see you again, if not for the circumstances."

Judy grinned up at the cougar. "Hello Mary. This is my partner, Nick Wilde. We're supposed to be here on vacation, but..." Looking to Jacob as he growled and glared back at her. "We had a little incident on the train. You'll want to request the tapes from this train."

Mary tilted her head. "Tapes?"

Nick chuckled and put out a paw. "Sheriff Catmaul. I'm assuming you're related to Bobby?"

"I am. My little brother." Shaking the offered paw. "Nice to finally meet you. Now, tapes?"

Nick nodded. "New thing installed on all trains, subway was first, but these inter-district and inter-state trains were upgraded over the past few months. Isn't being talk about a lot, but idiots like Jacob here are going to get the fact they are there broadcast quickly enough. If I can unload these bags, I'll help you put in the request in the office. They probably don't even have the request form printed locally yet."

Mary grinned. "Oh. Please, take your time. Judy, can I take Mr. Leapson from you? I'll stick him in the car." Judy handed off Jacob who continued to curse and throw out threats. Mary sighing as she lead him off. "Jacob. Shut up. You're only digging the hole you are already in deeper."

"Fuck you! Let me go or I'll have your badge! You won't work as a damn security guard at a dive bar after my lawyers get done with you, pelt!"

As they followed the sheriff, Judy piped up. "Mary, you have your body cam recording?"

Sheriff Catmaul nodded. "Always."

"Great. I'll stop my recording. Nick and I both have audio we'll transfer to you at the station."

Smiling widely, the sheriff nodded. "Of course you do. Now if I can get my deputies to do that." Leading the group towards the station building. Nick split off to get the rental as they entered the station with Geraldine, Judy going with the sheriff.

The matron of the Leapson family walked up as the sheriff was placing Jacob in the back of her cruiser. "Sherriff, can I ask why you have my son in paw-cuffs?"

"Just taking charge of him. He got himself in a bit of trouble on the train and I'm just taking charge of him and the investigation."

"I'm sure you'll be fair. What is he accused of doing."

The sheriff closed the door of her car. "Assault, Assault on an officer of the ZPD. Threats against ZPD officers. Resisting arrest. Domestic abuse. Threats against a victim of domestic abuse. That's just what I know about so far from the guard on the train that took control of him and radioed ahead."

The Leapson matron looked at her in shock. "Assaulting a ZPD officer? Threats? Who?"

Judy walked around from behind the sheriff. "Hello Marion. The assault would be me. The threats would be against me and my partner. I'd assume even you can figure out the domestic abuse bits."

She spun with a deep scowl. "Hopps. I should have known. I'll have these charges dropped as soon as the judge sees them. There is no way you didn't start this."

Judy smiled wickedly. "Oh, I doubt that seriously, Marion. The tapes from the train will prove quite instructive. You won't be able to lie your way to getting him out of the results of his actions this time. Thanks to the newly installed cameras, and the fact that Nick and I recorded our interactions with him, this is not going to play out the way it has in the past with your spawn."

The sheriff looked down at Marion. "Ma'am. Even without those tapes, I have a dozen statements from witnesses that were collected by the security guard on the train."

"Ha! As if the word of some random mammal or security guard is going to mean anything."

The sheriff shook her head. "I already have the tapes from the security office and reviewed some of them after I got here waiting for the train. He's in a lot of trouble, and I don't think you are helping him with the veiled threats."

A rental car pulled up and Nick stepped out. "Hey, Fluff. All good here?"

Judy turned and smiled at him. "Yeah. I think I'll help Sheriff Catmaul request those tapes and I'll get her secure drop box so we can turn over our recordings as well."

Nick nodded and leaned against the car. "Sounds good. Sheriff, we'll follow you to the station so Geraldine can give her statement and then give her a ride home." Judy and the sheriff then headed back towards the station

Marion jumped on the reference to Geraldine. "AH HA! That lying doe did this! She never loved him. Wouldn't give him kits, always taking those suppressors."

Nick nodded. "Yeah. Well, she had good reason, especially when she caught him throwing them away to try and force her into getting pregnant. The law looks down on such things, Ma'am. You are not doing him or yourself any favors."

"Oh, shut your mouth pelt."

Nick frowned as he slipped his phone back in his pocket, having started another recording. "Before you say more, I would like to remind you, even though I'm not required to, that I am recording this interaction for my safety and yours."

Marion glowered at Nick. "I said shut up, pelt. I can't believe they let something like you become an officer. You have to be a PR stunt, just like that useless Hopps doe."

Chuckling, Nick shook his head. "Oh, I assure you we are not. We have one of the best case closure rates in Precinct One. No matter how much of a PR stunt you want to think we are, you don't get assigned to or stay at Precinct One unless you earn it."

"I already know you two are given fluff cases and take credit for the work of other officers. Don't lie to me fox. You have no business having a badge. If I have anything to say about it, both you and that doe will be out of a job soon enough."

"Are you threatening my job, Ma'am?"

"You're damn right you filthy pelt." Reaching up to open the door to the cruiser where her son was.

Nick stood up from leaning against the rental car. "Ma'am, please take your paw off the cruiser. I will not allow you to open that door."

"I said shut up. You have no authority here."

"Ma'am, you are quite wrong about that. If you open that door, I will place you under arrest. I'll remind you I am recording this, and there are cameras on the cruiser and security cameras here at the train station."

Turning on Nick, Marion gave him a truly venomous glare. "I'll do what I want. You have no authority here pelt. You will not tell me what to do. I will not leave my son in the back of this cruiser for trumped up charges you and that rabbit manufactured."

Nick's frown deepened, and he spoke up, projecting his voice as he heard Judy and Mary returning.. "Mrs. Leapson. Step away from the cruiser. I will not tell you again, and if you do open that door, I will place you under arrest."

"Be silent pelt."

Jacob yelled from inside the cruiser. "That's right! You tell him Ma! That pelt doesn't know how things work around here."

With that, she opened the door to the cruiser just as Mary and Judy were rounding the back of said cruiser behind her. Nick simply put his paw out, preventing the door from opening more than two inches, then closed it with a hard shove. "Mrs. Leapson. You are under arrest. Place your hand behind your back."

Still not seeing or hearing Judy and Mary standing behind her watching, Marion continued, pointing at Nick and almost foaming as she screamed. "Fucking pelt. Who the fuck do you think you are? They really convinced you that the fake badge they gave you gives you authority. Well, you've got another thing coming. I'll have you for false arrest, harassment, assault on my son, and maybe me too. I could have hurt my fingers."

Nick glanced up and the sheriff who gave him a nod. He quickly grabbed the paw pointed at him, and with a quick motion had it behind her back, with her face against the window her son was staring out of. Taking the cuffs offered by Mary and applying them to Marion. "Marion Leapson, you have the right to remain silent. Anything you say, can and will be used against you in a court of law. You have a right to have an attorney present during questioning, if you cannot afford one, one will be provided. Do you understand these rights as I have read them to you?"

"Fuck you! You can't do this! You have no authority here!" Seeing the sheriff she keeps yelling. "I'll have your job too, fucking pelts! All of you will be on the bread line by the time my lawyers get done with you."

Mary took Marion from Nick. "Marion. He has just as much authority here as he does in Zootopia proper. Due to various agreements, the ZPD has authority, as long as they let local law enforcement know they're in town. Which both Officer Wilde and Hopps did several weeks ago, as a courtesy since they were going to be in town. As for the trains, they have more authority on them they I do, all the way to the state border. There are cameras on the trains, even if a lot of the workers don't know it, so I've seen and heard the tape of what your son did. The cruiser here has multiple cameras for multiple angles, including the outside of the vehicle. So... I'm pretty much sure any story you try and spin will be found false. Not even your lawyers will be able to play things this time."

Marion continued to scream as they opened the door. Jacob moved to jump out but stopped when he saw both Nick and Judy staring him down, instead moving back so his mother could be put in the back with him.

Mary turned to Judy and Nick. "Wow. Okay. I'll see you guys at the station? Clearly going to need to get some statements."

They both nodded, Judy speaking. "Of course. We will be right behind you. It's on the way home anyway."

The sheriff smiled. "On a personal note. I'm happy you found someone Judy." Looking to Nick. "You best treat her right, or I'll organize a proper country posse."

Nick smiled. "You have nothing to worry about there."

With that, Nick and Judy got into their rental, Geraldine already in the back seat, and headed towards town following the Sheriff's cruiser, and fifteen minutes later they were sitting at a table filling out witness and arresting officer statements along with Geraldine. Nick grumbling about having to do paperwork while on vacation. Once finished and reviewed, they were on their way. The sheriff making a few calls to get the two rabbits arraigned, while putting the tapes from the train, train station as she already had access to that from her computer, and the cruiser, into evidence, along with the recordings from Nick and Judy.

Nick and Judy were stepping onto the sidewalk when the judge walked up. "Judy Hopps? My goodness gracious be! It is. What brings you back to our little town?"

Judy smiled at the elder rabbit. "Judge Lettle. So good to see you. Just in town for a short visit to the family. I think I've introduced you to my partner in the ZPD, Nick Wilde."

The rabbit smiled up at Nick. "Good to meet ya again, Nick. But what y'all doing coming out of the station when the sheriff just called me about needing to get someone arraigned and a bail set? A bit early for some bucks to be gettin rowdy at the bars, and it ain't a holiday."

Nick shook his head. "Just had an altercation with a mammal on the train, and even after identifying ourselves and giving them the chance to walk away, they didn't and after slapping Judy, went to punch her. Landed himself arrested. Then his mother showed up as we got off the train and were handing him over to the sheriff, started in on her own tirade and got herself arrested as well."

Another rabbit came running up. "Judge Lettle! This is outrageous! I demand my wife and son be released this instant!"

The judge chuckled. "Nick, Judy... This be one of the trains I saw report about getting updated with cameras and such?"

Judy nodded. "Yes sir. Sheriff Catmaul already has copies in evidence. We even warned him about them."

Nick nodded.

"And I warned her about the cameras on the cruiser and the train station itself."

The judge turned to the new rabbit. "Mr. Leapson... Jacob... We'll see about maybe releasing them, after they are arraigned and charges filed. I suggest you call your lawyer instead of making demands of me. If there are tapes, I don't think you'll be able to bully your way out of things this time."

The elder Jacob's ears fell. "Tapes? From the train? What?"

Judy stepped up. "Good afternoon Jacob. Yes, tapes, from the train, with audio as well. They're quite clear, and multiple angles. Your family isn't going to be able to get out of responsibility for their actions this time. It's just too bad there wasn't cameras for the previous hundred times your family has done something and then blamed others, using your money and lawyers to get away with things."

Jacob took a step back. "Judy Hopps?"

Judy grinned evilly as Jacob took a clearly scared step back, his nose twitching wildly. "Yes. Judy Hopps. Officer, ZPD Precinct One, and my partner Nick Wilde, ZPD Precinct One." Indicating Nick. "Don't worry yourself Jacob. Neither Nick nor I will be handling this case, but we will both be happy to make ourselves available for the prosecution to testify if needed. Not that the tapes don't tell the story so much better than we ever could. I mean. Junior even admitted to my face, and it's on the tape, that he was in fact guilty of several other things. Things you and your family got away with, until now. So yeah. You'd best run off and call that slick lawyer of yours. You're going to need him."

The Judge chuckled as Jacob ran away. "Well... That's the first time I've ever seen him run scared from someone." Turning to Judy. "It's good to see you doing so well. Working in the city seems to suit you well." Noticing the other doe hiding behind Nick and Judy. "Is that Geraldine Henderson?"

Geraldine stepped into view. "It is, sir." Looking down at her paws nervously.

Looking confused for a moment then realizing. "Oh! Oh no. He didn't..."

Judy stepped in. "As the only Judge in town, probably best if you kept to the evidence at trial, sir."

The Judge nodded. "You're quite right, Judy. Good catch. Well, I'll be heading in to see what's up. You two should come by for dinner if you are going to be in town long. Just give Maggie a call first."

"We will, if the family gives us a chance. Thank you, sir."

The judge headed into the sheriff's office and Judy, Nick, and Geraldine loaded into the rental car. Some time later, with direction from Geraldine, they had pulled up to a small farm house. Nick and Judy got out to the shock of the rabbits waiting on the porch. The oldest doe, and clear matron of the family stepped forward slowly, watching Nick carefully."

"Can I help you mammals?"

Judy smiled brightly. "Mrs. Henderson?"

"That's me. Who are you?"

"Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde, ZPD." Offering a paw.

Taking another careful step forward, Mrs. Henderson shook Judy's paw. "Well, as you don't look upset or nervous, I'd say it isn't bad news."

Nick shrugged. "Depends on how you take it."

Judy nodded. "Nick and I ran into your daughter and Jacob Leapson on the train from Zootopia. There was an incident and Jacob has been placed under arrest. We offered to give Geraldine a ride home since Jacob won't be able to for some time, with any luck. There is finally video and audio of the misbehavior of a Leapson."

Mrs. Henderson frowned. "You suggesting that a Leapson will finally get what's coming to them?"

Judy nodded. "Very good chance. I'd say almost a certainty."

"So Geraldine is free of him? Where is she?" Hope bubbling up in Mrs Henderson's voice.

Geraldine stepped out of the back of the car. "I'm here mom. Nick and Judy really helped me. They gave me contacts for resources to get a new place where he can't find me when he gets out, and other things. I just... Please don't throw more bucks at me. I got with Jacob just so you would stop, and he seemed so nice at first. I'm sorry, mom." Looking down, her ears laying limp against her back.

Mrs. Henderson wrapped Geraldine in a hug as she started to cry. "No. I'm sorry. You have nothing to be sorry for. I am the one that kept pushing you girls to find mates. I shouldn't expect you to live your lives just like I have mine." Looking up at Judy. "What is it about you Hopps that results in you having such great relationships? The bucks are so much better than others, and you does too."

Judy smiled and leaned against Nick. "We were not always so good, but we learned to demand better for ourselves. A male that supports and accepts us for who we are. Us does also enforce the same on our brothers. That they respect, support, and expect the same, from their doe. There is more than enough of us that we don't all have to be farmers. More than enough kits, and the tech like tractors and such, to make sure the farm keeps running on smaller numbers. There are a lot of things that go into it. I'm sure my mom would be happy to talk to you about it."

Nick chuckled. "So, if I had mistreated you, you'd have sicked some of your sisters on me?"

Judy grinned. "Nope! I'm the one they threaten all the bucks with, so I'd have gone after you myself."

His chuckle taking on a nervous tone."Noted..."

Mrs. Henderson's eyes went wide. "Wait! You're with a fox?"

Judy nodded. "I am. He's the best mammal I know. He cares for me, he supports me, and has joined me in my dream as a member of the ZPD. He's taken bullets for me. He's the most caring lover a doe could ever hope for, and the differences between us physically, the difference between him and buck... They make all the cultural differences and misunderstandings we have worked through, worth it."

"Huh..." Mrs. Henderson cocked her head and looked at the pair with a critical eye. "Well I'll be. I guess I do need to reach out to your mother. If she's accepting of this, maybe there are a few things I can learn."

Judy frowned. "Well... We don't actually know that just yet. That's why were here."

"I'm sure it'll be fine. Bonnie is a smart doe. Anyway. I'll let you get on your way. Thank you for saving my Geraldine. Good luck on the reveal."

"Thank you Mrs. Henderson."

Judy and Nick climbed back in the car, leaving the small Henderson farm behind and making their way to the Hopps farm. Nick laughing about ten minutes into the drive. "It still amazes me that we are already on Hopps land and still have 20 minutes to go."

"We're the oldest family in the Tri-Burrows area. We've literally been here in some form for more than a thousand years, if not longer. I'll have to ask Chet how long, he's one of the family historians and responsible for keeping the documents from the earliest Hopps to now."

"Would be fascinating to know for real, how long you've been here."

"Well, I do need to talk to him about those other things. The paw signs, and the written language."

"For sure. Think you want to have that conversation first, before we talk to mom and dad? Just in case things don't go as well as we hope?"

"That's the plan, Nick."

"Okay. Another ten minutes or so, and we'll be there. You going to text Sharla just in case?"

"No, already talked to her. If needed, we can just show up."

"Here's hoping it isn't needed."

From there, they fell into a nervous silence, their free paws finding each other over the center console to give each other strength. Fifteen minutes later they came to a stop in front of the Hopps warren main building. Nick turning to Judy. "Okay Fluff. We're here. A bit late for lunch, but I'm sure there is something we can make sandwiches with. Then, the parents..."

Judy took a deep breath and let it out slowly. "Yeah. Lets get our stuff into our room, get a meal, see Chet, and then we'll deal with that part."

Getting out of the car, Nick retrieved their bags, then followed Judy to the front door. Both taking a step back as the door is opened suddenly, Bonnie Hopps standing there with a grin on her face. "Judy! Nick! So good to see you. You're late for lunch."

Judy smiled. "Hi Mom. Yeah, we had an altercation on the train and had to stop by the sheriff's office to fill out statements. Jacob Leapson, the younger one, finally got himself in trouble while also on camera and tape."

Bonnie laughed. "Oh, that's outstanding. About time one of them got themselves in trouble they can't get out of."

"Agreed. We'd really like to get set up in our room and then see about making some sandwiches."

Bonnie nodded. "Of course." Stepping aside. So good to see both of you."

They walked past her and headed for the ramp down into the burrow. Bonnie's nose twitching as they walked past and the scent of a mark hitting her from both Judy and Nick. She stood there watching them walk away, surprise on her face and a small gasp on her lips.

Nick and Judy took the elevator down to their floor and finally made it to their room. Truly, Judy's room, but they long since thought of it as their room. Closing the door and locking it, Nick sighed. "You're mom noticed the scent marks."

Judy nodded. "I heard her gasp. So, she's primed. She's going to know why we are here."

"Okay. So... Lets get food and not unpack. I'm honestly terrified, Judy. I keep having visions of your dad with a pitch fork and several of your brothers that aren't fond of me with torches."

"They're not going to lynch you, Nick. But I'm okay with waiting to unpack. I'm hungry, andI know you are."

"I'll have you know I was only worried about you." Nick put his paw on his chest. "How dare you imply that I had anything but the most laudable goals in mind." Nick's stomach rumbling loudly. "Okay... Maybe I am a bit hungry."

Judy laughed. "We've been together too long at this point Nick, you're not going to be able to get that one over on me."

Shrugging. "Fine. Can't blame me for trying."

A pounding coming from the door, along with Stu's voice. "Judith Laverne Hopps, you open this door right now!"

Nick turned to Judy, his ears back and tail pulling tight. "Well, that took less time than I expected. Please wake me up on the train so I know this is a nightmare."

Judy's ears had fallen. "I wasn't expecting them this soon either, and no, you're not on the train dreaming." Lifting her voice. "Dad! What is wrong with you? Why are you pounding on my door like a crazy mammal right after we get here. We haven't even gotten a chance to set our bags down."

Stu's voice sounding quite angry. "Judith! Don't you take that tone with me. Why is your door locked? Open this door right now!"

"It's locked because this is a rabbit warren and you don't get ten seconds of privacy if you don't lock the door. You know this! You taught us this. You would have just barged right in if it hadn't been locked. So no, you're acting like a crazy mammal, and we are therefore not opening that door."

"So you admit it! He's in there with you!"

Nick speaking up. "That's not a surprise, is it Stu? I've stayed in here since the first time I visited because you didn't have a guest room for me." Nick turns to Judy. "I can smell at least two of you brothers that don't like me out there.

"Don't you go speaking, fox! We know what you have done to your Judy. Now open this door, right now!"

Judy frowned. "Mom isn't replying on the phone." Speaking up through the door again. "Dad! You need to go calm down. Nick and I are going to come to you and mom in a few hours after we get something to eat, but we are not leaving this room with you out there acting the fool."

Bonnie's voice coming from father from the door. "Stewart! What are you doing!"

"What needs to be done! You told me what you smelled. I am not letting that fox stay in here one moment longer."

A much louder slamming sound echoes from the door and the door cracks, causing both Judy and Nick to step back from the door. Another booming hit against the door results in Nick diving to wrap around Judy, protecting her from the splinters and pieces of door that came flying into the room.

A lot happens all at once. Judy screams in shock as her door nearly flies into the room, barely held by its hinges. Nick wraps around her, growling loudly. Bonnie screams "Stewart Hopps! You stop this right now!" Stu charges into the room and seeing and hearing Nick growling, wrapped around Judy, wields his tazer hitting Nick who then screams in pain as Stu screams "Get off my daughter you filthy fox!" The involuntary muscle contractions cause a couple of Nick's claws to dig into Judy's side and leg, causing her to scream in pain.

Stu hits Nick a second time because of Judy's scream, resulting in Nick spasming and falling unconscious. "There! Boys! Drag this piece of filth out of the burrow."

Judy's brothers step forward as she stands up, one of them kicking Nick in the groin as he steps over him. Judy see's this, grabs the arm of said brother and throws him across the room, putting him through the door of the closet. Standing to her full height, Judy glares at the others. "If you so much as lay a hair on him, the rest of you will end up joining Terrel." Judy's brothers back off, all knowing better.

Stu steps forward. "Judy, why are you defending him? What is he holding over you? Look, he even hurt you!" Pointing to the points of blood showing up in her clothes.

Judy grabbed the paw and put Stu in a joint lock, out right screaming in rage. "Drop the tazer!" Stu does as instructed. "The only reason I'm injured is because of your actions! Nick was protecting me from the splinters and door you knocked in! The only reason I have these injuries is because you tazed him, TWICE, while he was wrapped around me protectively!"

"But Judy! He was growling like a savage!"

"No! He was growling in protection of his mate! Yes, what mom smelled was true. We were going to come talk to you after we had something to eat. That was the whole fucking point of coming here! That and claiming my sapphires! He's my mate! He proposed and I accepted! We are getting married, and there isn't anything you can do about it. If anything, you just put your invite in jeopardy! When he wakes up and I make sure he isn't permanently damaged, you are going to apologize for acting like a complete CRAZY MAMMAL!"

"I will not! Now let me go!"

Judy released Stu. "Dad, you will or we are leaving as soon as he is able." Looking up and glaring at her mother. "And you will for letting this happen! Do you think he's holding something over me, manipulating me too? After all these years, all the morons, jerks, tail-holes, and sexist idiots you have sent my way, your judgment of who would make a good mate for me is clearly faulty."

Bonnie stepped carefully into the room. "Judy, dear. He's a fox. Think of what others will think?"

"I don't care what others think! I care what he thinks. I care what I want and think! I thought I cared a little bit about what you think, if you had bothered to even give us a chance like every other member of this family. However, it is clear that working with Gideon has not relieved you of all the back-ass-ward beliefs you hold. Now get out of my room so I can look after my mate!"

Stu growled. "Judith! You will not..."

Judy returned Stu's growl with volume and very predatory menace. A sound neither Bonnie nor Stu had ever heard from their daughter, and it gave them both pause. "You lost the right to reprimand me when you busted in the door to my room and tazed my mate. TWICE! Causing him to claw me due to the tazer induced muscle spasms. So I will talk to you however I feel like. Now GET OUT!" Looking up at her mother. "And you lost that right when you let him do this."

Bonnie grabbed Stu and pulled him back towards the door, clearly realizing that things were far out of hand. "Stu, dear. I think we need to give Judy and Nick a little space."

Judy growled. "A little space? A Little space, mom!? Seriously? He and several of my brothers, your kits, who openly dislike Nick, broke in the door to my room. He tazed Nick, TWICE! For no legitimate reason. That brother." Pointing to the one still unconscious in the closet. "Kicked Nick,deliberately. Space? Yeah, I need space alright. Once I confirm that Nick is okay, I will be calling the sheriff, you will be arrested for assault, both you and him!" Pointing at Stu and again to the unconscious brother. You do not get to do what you did without consequences."

Bonnie blanched, her ears falling. "Judy. He's your father. You wouldn't."

"I will, now get out!" With that Judy turned her back on her parents as they retreated and kneeled down pulling Nick's head into her lap. The angry tears that had been flowing replaced by those of worry. "Hey Slick. You can wake up now. Please wake up." Checking his pulse. "Come on. You're still alive. Come back to me." Hugging herself around Nick's head.

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A/N Keep the reviews and comments coming, it's making Muse happy, which lets me work on this and other things. And also remember, if you see issues, misspellings, etc... Let me know in PM, I'm under no illusion of being perfect and want to fix those things I miss.

If you are truly enjoying this, you can check out my original work by popping over to my blog, Scribblings. You can link to it here: ( Direct: dcballard (remove the spaces) because the forwarding is misbehaving.) and then select Scribblings Blog ( Scribblings ).