Chapter 36:Operation Moxie

Faye POV

"There's a she-wolf in the closet… something… something… Ah-ooo!"

I shook my head, unable to hold back a smile at Ivy's antics. She had clearly gotten bored waiting in the woods for Robyn's signal—a simple whistle. Now she was filling the quiet with every random song that came to mind. Lyrics didn't matter; she barely knew half of them anyway, but that didn't stop her from belting them out with full enthusiasm. And when she hit the part of the song with a howl, she didn't just sing it. Sheactuallyhowled.

Then came another familiar tune:"Somebody once told me the world was gonna roll me—"

Alright, that's enough of that.I sat up, shaking the fur from my coat, doing my best to sound , no more singing.

She let out a dramatic huff, clearly annoyed that I'd interrupted her musical performance.

I'm sure Robyn will give us the signal soon.

"But Faaayee,"she whined, drawing out my name with a pout."I'm so bored waiting! Can't we do something to pass the time?"

I sighed, glancing around as I tried to think of anything to keep her entertained while staying close enough to hear Robyn's call. There was one idea that came to mind, though I knew Ivy wouldn't be thrilled.

Actually, I do have something we could do, but you're not going to like it.

I could sense Ivy tilt her head in confusion, curiosity, and a bit of excitement.

"What? What is it?"

I braced myself, then said,We need to…dirty up our fur.

There was a pause, followed by a horrified yelp."WHAT?! No! Absolutely not, Faye!"

I sighed. I should have seen this coming. You see, one thing I've learned about Ivy is that she absolutely despises getting her fur dirty. Anytime we'd go for a run in the forest and end up a little dirty, she'd make a whole ritual out of cleaning herself up. She'd pick out every twig tangled in her fur, and if there was even a hint of mud, she'd beeline straight to the river to wash it all off.

Think about it, Ivy,I 's supposed to find a stray dog from the woods. It'd look suspicious if we showed up looking like we just came from the groomer.

She let out a long-suffering groan but had to admit I made sense—though she didn't have to like it.

Plus, I'm pretty sure Robyn let us use her shower which would help us become clean again in no time. I bet she even has good-smelling soaps!

Ivy seemed to mull this over for a long moment before she finally sighed, relenting—but not without a condition."Fine, but I want control during the shower. I deserve to be pampered after the trauma you're about to put me through and I need to make sure we are clean."

I chuckled softly, giving in to her terms. This was probably for the best, anyway—if I tried to handle it myself, she'd just point out every speck of dirt I missed.

I walked over to a pile of leaves and nudged it with my paw, noticing a layer of mud beneath. Just as I was about to jump in, Ivy's voice rang out, panicked."Wait! Let me prepare myself!"Luckily, my paws were still on the ground, so I held back, waiting for Ivy's reluctant nod of approval. The moment she gave it, I launched myself into the pile, rolling around until leaves, twigs, and plenty of mud tangled in our fur. I could hear Ivy groaning, feeling every stick and speck of dirt I added to our coat, but I kept going until we were thoroughly coated.

Satisfied with the "wild stray dog" look, I sat down to wait for Robyn's call. Ivy, meanwhile, paced back and forth anxiously, eager for the signal so she could get closer to that shower. A few minutes later, the signal came—a short, clear whistle that cut through the quiet.

Ivy perked up, practically bouncing."What are we waiting for? Let's go!"

Hold on,I said, amused by her can't just pop up right away.

She huffed dramatically."Fine, but if Robyn doesn't hurry up and 'find' us, I will somehow throw myself into the next river we see."

I chuckled, even though Ivy's complaints were relentless, they were also oddly endearing. Standing up slowly and giving our fur one final shake, which earned me a whine from Ivy as I took my time. Finally, I trotted toward Robyn's house, the promise of Ivy's long-awaited bath just a few steps away.

Moving carefully through the trees, I caught a glimpse of Robyn's backyard just up ahead, bathed in a soft glow from the house lights. Robyn was whistling a softer tune now sitting on the back porch. Ivy was ready to leap out at the first sign of Robyn, but I reminded her again that we had a plan and we needed to stick with it. She let out a slight whine but nodded her head.

Staying hidden behind a nearby bush, I decided it was time to move on to the second part of the plan. I waited for a minute before purposely rubbing against it making it make a rustle sound that drew Robyn's attention. Hearing it she smiled before getting back into character. Robyn's voice echoes through the yard, calling out softly, "Hello? Is someone out there?"

This was it. Ivy's tail started wagging wildly, and I felt a surge of excitement rush through me, whether it was mine or Ivy's I couldn't tell you. Time to go make our grand entrance. I padded forward, stepping out of the shadows, and let my tail give a few friendly wags. I saw the surprise flicker across Robyn's face as she took in just how filthy we were. She hadn't expected this, but without missing a beat, she quickly improvised.

"Hey there, little puppy," she said gently, her tone filled with warmth and surprise. "Where did you come from?"

I padded closer, giving Robyn my best innocent dog look. Robyn crouched down, her smile widening, giving me a wink as she reached out a hand to me.

"Well, aren't you just the cutest little thing," she cooed, scratching behind my ears. I leaned into her touch, glancing up with a whimper, and nuzzled Robyn's hand, playing up to the "lost puppy" act with flair. We agreed to put on a "lost puppy act," just in case Charlie happened to show up unexpectedly.

"Bella?"

Speaking of which, Charlie's voice came from the door as he poked his head out. Robyn quickly scooped me up, and I let out a surprised yelp. She gave me a gentle squeeze—her silent apology—as she turned to face him, flashing Charlie an innocent grin.

"Look what I found in the woods! Poor thing must've gotten lost out there. Can we keep her?"

Charlie raised an eyebrow, studying me with a skeptical frown. "I'm not sure. What if she already belongs to someone? Don't you think their owner might be missing them?"

Robyn stroked my head, trying to look earnest. "Oh, come on, Dad. She's just so sweet! Besides, I haven't seen any missing posters around."

Charlie gave me a long look, still dubious. "I don't know, Bells. Dogs are a lot of responsibility. And with me at work and you at school…"

But Robyn was undeterred. She turned up the pleading. "Please? I'll take care of her! Feed her, walk her, give her baths… she could even protect the house when you're not home. Extra security!"

Charlie sighed, rubbing the back of his neck as he looked down at me again. I gave him my most pitiful puppy-dog eyes, letting out a tiny whine for good measure. Robyn quickly joined in giving him puppy dog eyes as well.

Charlie glanced back and forth between us, clearly wavering as we doubled down on our pitiful stares. He tried to hold his ground, but Robyn's best "innocent daughter" look combined with my puppy-dog eyes seemed to wear him down.

Finally, with a sigh, he threw his hands up in surrender. "Alright, alright—you both win. But if this dog is staying, you have to really take care of her, Bells. That means walking, feeding, everything. Give her a bath when you bring her in. Afterward, we can go together to the store to get dog supplies."

Robyn beamed, tightening her hold around me as she grinned at Charlie. "Thank you! I promise you won't regret it."

Charlie shook his head, mumbling something about "getting too soft," but there was a small smile tugging at his lips. As he headed back inside, Robyn whispered in my ear, "Mission accomplished! All it took was a little teamwork."

I barked softly in agreement, though I knew Ivy's patience was thin, especially with all the mud clinging to us.

"By the way,"Robyn added, raising an eyebrow as she took in our muddy fur,"why are you so dirty?"

Ivy whined remembering why we were dirty in the first place.

"Yeah, Faye. Please tell her why we look like we crawled out of the earth."

I let out a slight huff before directing my attention back to Robyn.

I thought it would be weird to find a clean dog that had been living in the woods.

Robyn laughed, nodding."Makes sense. But why is Ivy so upset?"

Ivy doesn't like to get dirty… she despises it actually. It took a while to get her to agree to dirty up our fur but she agreed with a condition…

I could see the question in Robyn's eyes but I quickly turned my head examining a tree like it was the most interesting thing in the world.

Ooooh, look at the pretty tree…

I saw from the corner of my eyes Robyn squinting her eyes at me before she lifted me in her arms making me look down at her.

Did she just put me in air jail?

"Faye? What was the condition?"

I sighed, remembering the promise I'd made.

I'd said we could use your shower, and that Ivy could take control—she deserves a bit of comfort after everything she's been through. But now that I think about it… your shower's probably going to end up a muddy mess.

I swear I was going to ask you first, but things happened fast, and I didn't get the chance… Sorry. But can we please, please use your shower? I promise we'll clean up after.

I gave her the best puppy eyes I could.

Robyn's skeptical stare lingered, but she chuckled, unable to stay serious. "You're lucky you're cute, you know that?" she whispered, bringing me down to her level and bumping our noses together. "Alright, let's go get you cleaned up, 'lost puppy.'"

I gave her a little bark and wagged our tail enthusiastically as she carried us inside, the warmth of the house seeping into my fur. Ivy wasted no time, linking into Robyn's mind with a huff."Just so you know, I'm not doing this halfway. If I'm getting clean, I'm making sure I'm spotless. But can we hurry, please? I swear I can feel this mud becoming a part of me!"

Robyn stifled a laugh, raising an eyebrow at Ivy's dramatics."Don't worry, Ivy. I'll even make sure it's nice and warm and find some nice soaps for you. I think I also have a hair dryer in the bathroom that works wonders."Hearing that Ivy calmed down a bit.

"Bells?"

I looked over to see Charlie sitting on the couch. Robyn perked up looking at him with a curious smile.

"Yeah?"

"While you bath her, you might want to think of a name."

Robyn looked at me with a thoughtful expression. "A name, huh?" She paused lifting me to her face. "I'll think about it." Charlie nodded his head before turning back to the TV. Robyn brought me upstairs to the bathroom, setting me down on a towel draped over a nearby rod before she turned to start the shower.

As the water ran, she mused in the shared mind link, tilting her head thoughtfully."Hmm… I'd just call you by your names, but with both of you in there, that might get confusing. So… Faye, Ivy—do either of you have a preference? Or maybe there's something new you'd like me to call you? It's only fair for you guys to decide because it's the name you'll have to answer to."

I thought for a moment, then reached out to do you think, Ivy? Do you want to use my name or yours?

"Hmm, I think it would be a good idea to use a different name…"

I agree, By the way, do you have a full name? I never asked.

"Kinda, my middle and last name is the same as yours. So, my full name is Ivy Moxie Parker. Why?"

I perked up at thinking of an about that, then? We could go with Parker—or Moxie. It feels like the new name should have a bit of something that both of us have in common.

I could feel Ivy's excitement at the suggestion."I love it! I feel that Moxie sounds like a great name for us! Moxie means energetic or driven which I think describes both of us very well. Plus it makes us sound tuff with a sassy side."

I looked back at Robyn only to see her looking at all the different soaps. I guess she decided to give us some privacy while we were debating our decision. I let out a small bark getting her attention. She looked down at us with a small smile. "So, did you guys decide?"

Yeah, Ivy and I share a middle and last name. The choices came down to Moxie or Parker. We decided on Moxie.

"Moxie…" Robyn repeated the name, her expression thoughtful before a warm smile spread across her face. "I like it, it fits you! Alright, Moxie it is." She felt the water before turning around and smiling at us. "Perfect timing—the shower is warm. I even found a soap that I think Ivy would like, and it smells amazing!"

Ivy perked up at that, a thrill of excitement sparking in her.

Okay, ready for your shower?

"Ready? Ready?! I've been ready since the moment that first leaf touched our beautiful fur! I'm surprised I lasted this long without finding a river to throw ourselves in!"

Okay, okay… I get it.

I let out a slight chuckle.

I give you permission to take control…

As soon as I said that, I felt Ivy pushing lightly against the barrier in my mind, a gentle nudge that was almost playful. I could her eagerness and excitement which made me smile. I took a deep breath and relaxed, letting my shoulders drop as I closed my eyes which helped Ivy slip into place, easily taking the reins.

Ivy opened her eyes and glanced up at Robyn, her tongue lolling playfully out of the side of her mouth."I'm ready!"Robyn nodded, then suddenly froze, eyes widening. "Oh! I almost forgot—I need to grab an extra towel for you. And I'll have to stay in the bathroom while you shower. If Charlie comes upstairs and finds me waiting outside, he'll have questions." She quickly added, "Don't worry, I'll turn around the entire time, and the shower curtain will be a buffer."

Ivy didn't seem the least bit fazed."I don't mind. Faye's way more concerned about nudity than I am—I just want to get clean."Robyn chuckled, amused, before opening the door to grab an extra towel. After locking it behind her, she explained how to work the shower, pointing out which soaps were for what. Gently placing Ivy into the tub, she closed the curtain and I assumed she turned to face the wall. Ivy quickly shifted back to our human form, stepping under the warm stream of water with a sigh of relief as the mud and leaves washed away. She showered quickly but thoroughly, and once she was satisfied, she transformed back into our German Shepherd form and shook out most of the water out of our fur.

"Done! Where is that hair-dyer thing you were talking about?"

Hearing the cue, Robyn pulled back the shower curtain and wrapped Ivy in a towel, gently patting her fur to soak up the rest of the water. Once Ivy was mostly dry, Robyn grabbed the blow dryer, using it on a low, warm setting to finish the job, her fingers brushing through Ivy's fur to keep it smooth. Ivy enjoyed the sensation of the blow dryer, her body relaxing as the warm air ruffled her fur.

Once Ivy was satisfied, we switched back, and Robyn scooped me up as we headed downstairs. When we reached the bottom, we found Charlie getting ready to take us to the store, finishing up by tying his light brown boots. As Robyn stepped off the last stair, Charlie looked up at us with a surprised expression before offering an awkward smile.

"So, did you settle on a name yet?"

Robyn nodded warmly, glancing down at me. "Yeah, we decided on Moxie, didn't we, girl?" Hearing this, my tail began to wag, and I let out a small bark in response. Charlie looked between us with a soft expression. "You two must have a great connection. She seems like a smart puppy. I'm glad Moxie makes you happy, Bells. But, why the name Moxie?"

Robyn looked a bit taken aback but quickly recovered, replying smoothly, "I don't know, I tried a bunch of different names while bathing her, and this was the one she responded to. Plus, she's got so much spirit and determination—Moxie just fits her, don't you think?" She lifted me a little, showing me off to Charlie. Now that I was clean, he could get a better look at me, his expression softening as he took in my bright eyes and wagging tail.

Charlie studied me for a moment longer, a small smile tugging at his lips. "I think you're right. She does look like she's got a bit of spunk." He gave a soft chuckle and reached out to scratch behind my ears, his touch gentle. "Moxie it is, then. She definitely got that little spark in her eyes."

Robyn grinned, pleased with his approval. "I knew you'd see it too." Charlie nodded, looking between us thoughtfully. "You two make a good team. She's a lucky pup."

Charlie took a step back, cleared his throat, and began walking toward the car, with Robyn close behind, I cradled in her arms. "Well, how about we get this girl some supplies?" he suggested. "She'll need dog food, a collar, food, water dishes, and, most importantly, a dog bed unless you want her to sleep on your bed and a leash so you can take her on walks."

As we sat in the car, with me curled up in Robyn's lap and Charlie starting the drive to the store, Ivy huffed at the mention of a collar and leash, her tail flicking in clear defiance."A leash? Really?"she muttered, clearly unimpressed. I let out a dramatic sigh, replying to Ivy,You're worried about the wrong thing. What about the dog food? I don't want to eat dog food.

Ivy shook her head."Hey, I don't have a problem with it. As long as it tastes good."

I gave her a skeptical look, raising an ?I do know we're talking about dog food, right?

Ivy just grinned, flicking her tail playfully."What? I'll try any food at least once. Besides, it might not be that bad."

Robyn gave me a gentle pat on the head interrupting our conversation."Don't worry; I'm not that sure how I feel about you eating dog food either, we'll figure something else out,"she whispered in our minds reassuringly.

Charlie caught my sigh and shook his head with a chuckle. "Yep, she's definitely got some spunk."

Robyn chuckled softly. "Yeah, I'm a little worried about how she's going to handle the leash and collar. And dog food… that might be an adventure in itself."

Charlie gave an awkward nod, trying to sound encouraging. "She'll get used to it," he said with a slightly sheepish smile. "All dogs do eventually."

I gave him a sidelong glance as if to saywe'll see about that,while Robyn tried not to laugh, clearly amused by my response as we headed towards the pet store for supplies.

We actually ended up having a surprisingly good time at the pet store. Ivy and I ended up throwing a small fit over the collar thing. We didn't like the feeling of anything around our neck—not just for the obvious reason of not being a regular dog, but for something else, something deeper. Yet, no matter how hard I tried, I couldn't quite put my finger on what it was.

Charlie ended up suggesting a dog harness after we dodged the collar for the 10th time. We finally settled on a sleek black one that felt a little less confining along with a yellow leash.

We picked out a dog bed, and some dog bowls, and then Robyn, scanning the shelves, suggested we try canned wet food. She grabbed a steak-flavored version, which made me shrink back in mild horror while Ivy's eyes lit up, practically drooling at the thought."Steak!"she whispered, clearly thrilled by the idea.

I rolled my eyes, muttering under my breath,I'd rather stick to normal food, thanks.

"Don't worry, Faye. If it comes down to it, we can always sneak you human food, donate the dog food to shelters that need it, and just tell Charlie that the Cullens had extra so he doesn't waste his money on buying more. I bet we could get Esme or Rose to make your food and put it in a can or something. We could even make you all-natural dog food with boiled eggs and chicken breast. I had a friend in my past life who showed me her all-natural dog food that was mostly human foods that dogs could eat."

I let out a small huff at the thought of tasting dog food, but it was definitely better than the idea of eating it forever. So, I nodded in agreement when no one was looking. After Charlie paid, we climbed into the car. Ivy and I were discussing the new rule for switching control of my body, and we eventually agreed she could take over whenever she wanted unless I told her otherwise.

Just then, we noticed Robyn looking nervous, her gaze distant and unfocused, like something was weighing on her mind. Curious, I looked up at her with my head tilted, one ear flopping slightly as I tried to catch her eye. I could sense Ivy's confusion as well.

Robyn? What's wrong?I nudged her it's about me whining over the dog food, I was just complaining—I can handle it. Well, maybe not the eating part, but I don't mind the plan about having Rose make my food or trying that all-natural dog-human food thingy.

Robyn jumped slightly at the sound of my voice, then gave me a faint smile, though she didn't quite meet my gaze. Her fingers absentmindedly scratched behind my ears, her thoughts elsewhere.

"No, it's not that, don't worry,"she replied, casting such a quick glance at Charlie that I almost missed it. I tilted my head, following her gaze toward him as he drove home, completely it about Charlie?

As soon as I asked, her hand paused, resting still against my fur as her shoulders slumped slightly.

"Yeah, it's about him,"she admitted quietly."I'm stressing over telling him I broke up with Edward—which I know he'll be relieved about. But that's not really what's bothering me…"She trailed off, biting her lip."I also want to tell him I'm a lesbian. But… it is 2005, not a lot of people are open to this. What if he hates me for it? What if he kicks me out? What if he just… can't accept it? It feels like telling my parents all over again and they didn't take it well."

Her voice grew softer, her gaze fixed on her hands. A pang of sympathy hit me, and I snuggled into her arms, pressing close to offer a bit of comfort as I let out a soft, reassuring whine.

Robyn… I'm pretty sure he won't hate you, and he definitely won't kick you out. Especially not for being yourself. But if, somehow, he did, I know Rosalie and Emmett would take care of us.I nudged her for your parent… I know it was most likely hard not having them support you when you needed them to but I do honestly think Charlie will take it well. And if he doesn't understand right away, that doesn't mean he won't come around eventually. Sometimes people just need a little time.

I hoped my words had reassured her, even if only a little. She nodded, relaxing as she gave me a gentle, grateful pat on the head before finally turning her attention to Charlie, who was just pulling the car up to the house.

Taking a deep breath, Robyn seemed to gather her courage, her fingers tightening slightly around my new harness for support. "Uh, Dad… there's something I need to tell you."

Charlie's eyes widened in surprise, a look of panic quickly crossing his face. "You're… you're not pregnant, are you?" he blurted out.

Robyn stared at him, stunned, while I let out a snort of amusement and Ivy erupted into laughter. Robyn shook herself out of her shocked silence, managing a small smile as she shook her head. "No, Dad, I'm not pregnant."

Charlie visibly relaxed, letting out a sigh of relief as he rubbed the back of his neck, his cheeks reddening. "Oh, uh, good. Sorry about that… it's just, you know, a lot of teenagers start those talks like that, so I wanted to be sure."

Robyn chuckled softly, some of her nerves melting away. "It's not that, I promise." She took another breath, her expression turning serious again. "I wanted to tell you that I… well, I broke up with Edward." She paused, then added quietly, "And also… I'm a lesbian."

Charlie leaned forward, a slight frown of concentration on his face. "Sorry, what was that last part? I didn't quite catch it."

Robyn took a steadying breath, her voice stronger this time. "Dad… I'm a lesbian. I like girls."

Charlie looked a bit surprised, his initial relief shifting into thoughtfulness as he processed her words. Robyn fiddled nervously with my harness, and I snuggled closer, offering her silent support.

After a moment, Charlie gave her a small smile. "Well, at least I won't have to worry about you getting pregnant any time soon."

Robyn's eyes widened in surprise. "That's it? No 'Are you sure?' or 'It's just a phase'?"

Charlie shook his head, his expression sincere. "If you say you're a lesbian, I believe you, and I support you," he said warmly. Then, with a faint smile, he added, "Besides, now I don't have to worry about boys sneaking into your room—and, for the record, I was never a fan of that last boyfriend anyway."

He glanced at her with a thoughtful look. "Speaking of boys… you might want to tell Jacob, so he stops trailing after you like a lost puppy. If he—or Edwin—gives you any trouble, just let me know." He ended with a stern nod.

Robyn shook her head, amused. "It's Edward, Dad. But don't worry, I'll handle it, but if I need to, I will let you know."

Charlie nodded satisfied with that answer before his face flushed a little, and he cleared his throat before speaking in an awkward tone. "So… is there anyone you like right now? And… does this mean you won't be visiting the Cullens' house anymore?"

Robyn chuckled. "No, there's no one at the moment, but I feel like my miss right is out there somewhere. And as for the Cullens, I'd still like to go over sometimes. Alice is there, and I've actually started to get along with her sister…Rosalie."

Charlie raised an eyebrow, his expression expectant. "So… Rosalie…?"

Robyn took a moment to catch on, then quickly shook her head, her expression adamant as she insisted otherwise. "No, no! I don't have a crush on her. She's straight, definitely not my type, and she's dating Emmett."

Charlie relaxed a bit, nodding as he took it all in. Robyn cleared her throat to get his attention. "Is it okay if, after I get Moxie's stuff set up, I take her to see Rosalie and Alice? They told me they love dogs, and I'm excited to show her off!"

Charlie nodded with a small smile. "Sure, go ahead. Just be back before it gets too dark—you've got school tomorrow, after all."

Robyn nodded eagerly, her eyes sparkling with excitement as she looked at me. "You hear that, Moxie? I'm going to introduce you to some people!" I tilted my head in feigned confusion, even though I understood what she was saying. Then, sticking my tongue out and panting, I played my part perfectly. Charlie chuckled, reaching out to pet my head.

With that, we headed inside to get my things set up. Robyn attached the leash to my harness and led me to her truck, where she helped me into the passenger seat. Once I was settled, she shot a quick text to Rose saying that we were on our way over and started the engine, and we drove off toward the Cullen's house, both of us were excited to see Rose and Emmett and to see if my spell worked. Even though I'm sure it did, there was no harm in checking before Edward arrived.