FSE

Furry search engine

formerly SoFurry search engine

OK, another segment...I've gone through and hopefully the font is better...i really just need to take a class on computers or something lol...i know where the keys are..that's about it.

Anyway I hope everyone enjoys and as always, if you note anythign that stands out as wrong or just odd feel free to say so...criticism is more than welcomed. And with that....

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School passed slowly, and boringly, if not quite chaotically. Everyday seemed like the last-which meant it was stressful and full of work. Jake and Lucas were glad they had some classes with one another, it made it easier to do some work from classes together, but they were still up late into the nights. At most they found themselves getting four hours or less of sleep a night, and making up for it on the weekends. It wasn't that the classes were hard, in truth the material wasn't the worst part, it was the work.

August passed quickly, and then September passed, October approached and was now in its second week. The weather was now cool outside, the first signs of fall had passed and the season was upon them. Jake loved the cooling weather, it felt great. He loved being able to go outside at night and watch his breath dissipate into the air. He had always loved cold weather; it was just the perfect temperature he thought. It wasn't even about the chance of snow; he just wanted the world to be a bit cooler. It still wasn't cold enough for a jacket, at least not for him. Most of the people were wearing light jackets but he liked the weather. He still had on jeans and short sleeves, and would till the beginning of November. He felt excited about the winter, ready for the snow to fall again.

School was hectic to say the least. Jake quickly found that maybe taking all the classes was a bad idea, but at the same time his pride stopped him from dropping any of them. He did the same in high school, it didn't matter what the material was about, once he signed up he stayed in it for the long run. The thought of quitting made it seem like he would give up-which he refused. He liked learning about all the material, that was the fun stuff. The annoyance came when professors gave assignments and other work that wasn't directly related to what they learned. He thought it was stupid to have homework that took a few pages when it was just as simple to learn it and take notes, then leave it at that.

The past two weeks had been nothing but work, followed by more work, and then when the last assignment was finished there was a bit more work.

"Why can't they just teach us and then leave it at that...I don't get the point of making me plug and chug for an hour..." Jake said, breaking the silence as he closed his math book. He sighed and adjusted his glasses on his muzzle before grabbing another book. He looked over at Lucas, who was finishing up an assignment for a different class. "How about we take care of...MB next?" he asked, using abbreviations to shorten classes.

"Yeah...sounds good," Lucas replied and sighed, looking at his paper and hating the way he had typed it. The theory was right, but the way he had typed it up made it sound too abstract, at least that's what he thought.

He liked school, but he felt like Jake. Sometimes it was just too much. He was glad the bear was in some of his classes; it made a few classes much easier. One thing that had been annoying the past few weeks was the lack of time they had been able to spend together. The closest they came to personal time was when they went to sleep and he and Jake lay down together.

He looked over at Jake and chuckled, "I think I'd kill to have a 'chug and plug' class,"

"Ehh...it can have its advantages I guess," Jake said, already opening a new window on his computer. It was strange; he and Lucas sat next to each other at the dining table, both surrounded by books and stray papers. Jake wished the time was more personal, they didn't really talk too much while working, at least not about anything that wasn't school related. It just wasn't the same as actually being together.

They were both happy with how they were now; no longer worrying if the other was still angry. Jake was glad the wolf had finally realized that he forgave him, and was glad that he could trust Lucas. In the end things were going very well, but lately they hadn't been able to be close. It wasn't because of a personal issue; it was just because they were busy. Jake liked to keep busy, but not at the expense of time with Lucas. Being with the wolf; going to school with him, eating, and resting-none of it was really personal, at least with the fact that they hid their relationship. They slept together but they usually went straight to bed, Jake kissing Lucas and quickly falling asleep. He wanted to have some alone time with the wolf, not just seeing each other casually.

Jake looked over at Lucas, who was rubbing his eyes. He let out a sigh and closed his computer and put his paw on the wolf's.

Lucas looked over at Jake, confused.

"We're going out," Jake said, it wasn't a question.

"Why?"

"Because you and me haven't had any time alone the past two weeks, and you know what I mean. Look at us...lab, school, sleep, rinse and repeat...we need some time together...or if you want...just some me or you time,"

"What do you mean?"

"I mean...if you want we don't have to hang out...if you need just some personal time then take it...but regardless, we both need to relax some,"

Lucas looked at Jake. He smiled, "Yeah, I guess, but...I like 'us' time more than 'me' time. I want to spend my 'me' time with you," he said and leaned forward and kissed Jake. The bear had a point; lately life had become too ritualistic. It felt strange but he missed Jake, the time they usually had. He looked back at his computer, saved his files and closed it. He looked back at Jake who was standing and stretching, "So...what did you have in mind Big-guy?"

"I don't know...anything that isn't about derivatives or bacteria or serology or really anything biological"

Lucas chuckled and did as the bear, stretching his tensed muscles. Spending almost all day sitting down on a computer made him tense and the stretches felt great. He thought about what the bear said and wondered what they could do. "Nothing biological?" Lucas asked teasingly.

Jake smiled at the wolf, "Well...I guess there are a few things...what did you have in mind?"

Lucas grinned at the bear, "...Want to go for a walk?"

Jake's smile fell away but he didn't grimace, instead he began to laugh. Jake nodded, "Sounds good to me...where to?"

"How about just into town, and if you want we can hang out there, maybe grab a bite then come back and finish up our assignments..." Lucas said.

"Already thinking of work again?" Jake asked with a sigh. He looked at the wolf and moved forward, "Let's just relax,"

Lucas thought for a moment, and then nodded. It was almost funny to hear the bear say that, Jake was usually the one who didn't deviate from schedules. He liked the idea of just relaxing. He saw Jake move to the door and look back at him, waiting on him. Lucas chuckled and moved with the bear, and stopped Jake from opening the door, stopping it with his paw. When the bear looked back he planted a quick kiss on the bear's muzzle and stayed there. He pulled away after a moment and smiled, "Thanks," he said as they opened the door.

Jake smiled and walked out, the air was cool. He let out a sigh, closing his eyes and enjoying the new feelings. He felt Lucas next to him, it made everything feel better already. It was ironic, how the cold weather seemed to make his stress melt away. After a moment he opened his eyes and saw Lucas looking at him. He smiled at the wolf and just nodded, and then began to walk. They walked slowly, enjoying the time. They didn't talk too much at first, rather, enjoying each other's company. Jake stayed as close as he could to the wolf-the only thing he wasn't doing was holding Lucas's paw.

"So, what do you feel like? Tonight's my treat," Lucas said with a smile.

"Whatever you want...you know I can eat anything," Jake said with a chuckle.

"...You always do that," Lucas said with a frown, "I want to know what you want..." he said.

Jake looked down at the wolf. He thought for a moment. He wasn't indecisive; he just didn't think these types of decisions mattered. Even when he was a cub he had never really made these types of choices. "I gue-"

"No guessing Big-guy," Lucas cut in.

"Geez...you have to make it so hard...we're going to the Chinese place then...I feel like fried rice tonight,"

Lucas chuckled lightly, "OK, sounds good," he replied. He didn't try to pick at the bear, but he felt like he was the one who always chose. As they continued down the street Lucas felt a chill run through him. He moved closer to Jake, and gently rubbed against the bear; despite the weather Jake felt warm.

Jake chuckled, and fought his urge to put an arm around the wolf. He was beginning to hate hiding the truth. At times it would've been so much easier to just act like they wanted to, but then again...the truth didn't escape him either. Jake knew that coming out would bring problems. He wanted to tell Jim at least, but couldn't bring himself to do even that. He thought that if he did he wouldn't tell anyone, he would just act how he wanted with Lucas, and that eventually people would get the picture. Jake looked over at the wolf, "Lucas..."

"I know..." Lucas said with a sigh.

"I'm sorry..." Jake said, and saw Lucas's surprise.

"Why are you sorry?" Lucas asked, confused by the bear's sudden change.

"I'm sorry I'm too much of a coward to act how I want to with you in public, too weak to overcome what people may think..." Jake said with a sigh. It wasn't emotional for him, not anymore. These were just thoughts that had occupied his mind for the past few months, having time to ferment.

"You're not a coward Jake..."

"Then what am I?" Jake asked with a chuckle. They continued their walk, moving slowly. A breeze ran through the street, Jake's fur lightly blowing as it ran through his fur.

"Like me..." Lucas replied, a surprisingly firm tone, "Jake, it's not just you...I have these thoughts too, and I hate it. I want to tell people, but another part of me doesn't, I get what you mean."

"But you have your family..." Jake said with a sigh.

"You have my family too...how long will it take for you to get that,"

Jake nodded; he knew the wolf was right. He had Mr. Vadikson's support, Mrs. Vadikson's disgust, and Ana's admiration. It was almost all ironic. All the things Lucas had, he had in effect. It wasn't the same though. "It's not the same...you know what I mean,"

Lucas didn't say anything; he did understand what Jake meant. He didn't know how Jake felt, or what he was going through, at least not fully. He hadn't worried about his family's thoughts for little more than a few months before his father 'outed' them so to speak. The thought of Jake carrying the weight with him all these years made his own dilemmas within his family seem trivial. The bear had it worse, that was obvious; none of his family would accept him, it was obvious. Lucas felt a frown on his face and they walked in silence for a moment. He looked up at Jake after a moment, "Well, whatever happens you still got me," he said.

Jake smiled at the wolf, "Yeah, that's all I really need...thanks," he said and did take the privilege of bringing Lucas closer to him for a moment. It was short, but it was enough. When he broke away he felt better. "Well, let's think of it positively," he started, joking around a bit, "They'll have to learn eventually and once they do we won't have to worry about what they 'might' do because...well, you know,"

Lucas chuckled at the bear. "Yeah...that's one way to look at it...on a serious note though," Lucas said and briefly looked at Jake, "It's not as bad as you may think...it isn't hell having it out in the open...even if just with one or two people,"

Jake looked down at Lucas, and after a moment he nodded. The wolf had some advantages in this subject that he didn't. They didn't speak about the issue any more, instead switching to a better topic. They began to talk about what they were going to do when life became less hectic. Jake thought it would be good to go for one last hike before the trails were closed off, as they would be once heavy snow came. They soon found themselves in town and went to the restaurant. When they walked in Jake's glasses fogged up from the sudden change and he chuckled. He took them off and they placed their order. As they talked their food came and they began to eat. Jake enjoyed the change in pace, from a chaotic tempo to a slow one.

"How is it?" Lucas asked, "You got something different from usual...you OK?" he said, pointing at the food.

Jake chuckled and set down his glass, "Yeah, I'm fine...and the food is good. I just felt like trying something different,"

Lucas nodded his head. "So I was thinking for hiking...we should definitely do it next weekend,"

Jake looked up at the wolf, "But don't you have a lab that week?"

"I'll do it early,"

Jake frowned at the wolf, "Don't do that if its jus-" he was saying before Lucas silenced him.

"I don't want to do the lab one way or the other...but I do want to spend more time with you," Lucas said.

Jake smiled at the wolf, "Is there anything I can do to help?" he asked. He felt much happier now, hearing that Lucas wanted to hang out with him. It made him feel better-wanted.

"Well, could you help me with the classes we share that day,"

"You mean do all the work?" Jake asked with a grin.

"I'd owe you,"

Jake smiled at the wolf, "Hmm...sounds good," he replied and felt a yawn build up in his chest. As they continued to talk he moved his leg over and gently rubbed it against Lucas's. He felt Lucas return it, and chuckled lightly, it was strange; they were having a normal conversation while rubbing against the other. He silently wished once again that they didn't hide their relationship.

They ate their meals and sat around and talked for a moment. Jake looked out and saw it that the sun was beginning its descent onto the horizon. He looked over at Lucas and smiled, "We should probably head back,"

"Yeah...I guess so," Lucas said and stood up, stretching again. The time had been relaxing. He felt much better, and was glad the bear had suggested going out. They walked to the door and exited. As they walked down the street he looked up at Jake, the bear was fumbling with his glasses; trying to adjust them once again onto his face. It was colder than before, and Lucas wished he had brought his jacket, the icy wind chilling him through his fur. When the bear looked down at him he gave a confused look, and Lucas realized that he was staring. He chuckled, "Sorry...but...thanks for tonight. It's been really fun," he said.

Jake grinned at the wolf, "Thank you...you bought," he joked. He looked over at the sun again, "So...you enjoyed everything?" he asked, and let out another yawn.

Lucas shivered lightly, the air chilling him. He looked over at Jake; the bear had a strange appearance. The sun was hitting him in an odd way-making Jake look like he had an orange glow enveloping him, his eyes hidden yet still gave him an pleasant look. Lucas smiled and lost his thoughts for a moment. After a moment he answered the bear, "Of course,"

"Why'd you pause?" Jake asked with a chuckle.

"Too busy staring at you I guess...you look really nice," Lucas said casually.

Jake felt himself blush, blood running into his face, at the wolf's comment. He was sure that it wouldn't matter how long they were together, Lucas would always be able to make him do that. He looked at the wolf and saw Lucas shiver. He guessed it was cold to him. Jake let out a sigh and moved closer to Lucas and put his arm around the wolf, bringing him closer to him, tightly pulling him in at first.

Lucas looked up at Jake, and was about to say something when the bear just pulled him again. It was violent, just forceful and firm. Lucas didn't say anything, and instead enjoyed the warmth of the bear as they continued to walk.

When Lucas didn't pull away Jake let out a sigh. "I'm tired of acting so strange out in public...so if I do this kind of stuff is that OK?...I hate not being near you. I don't want us to keep distanced when we're so close. Lucas...I just want to be able to be with you more,"

Lucas smiled up at Jake, "I'd like that..." he said and took the chance to nuzzle the bear lightly. It was the first time either of them had done anything affectionate in public, and it didn't feel any different than if they were alone. Lucas looked around, and they basically were alone. They were the only ones on the road, well, the only ones walking. He guessed that no one would recognize them from a car.

They still talked casually, as if nothing strange was happening. Jake occasionally pulled Lucas closer to him, not wanting to let go. The sun was setting slowly, but it seemed like it faded away all too quickly.

Lucas felt Jake's arm fall off his shoulder, but he still felt warm. They made it to the apartment and quickly went inside. Lucas was glad to be back inside, it was a bit warmer in the apartment. He knew Jake liked it cold, so he generally didn't even turn the heat on; it was something he had known about Jake from last year. When he stayed over sometimes during the winter he had to wear his jacket inside, even when he slept. At least there was no wind, so it was warmer still. He still felt himself shiver though. Lucas looked at the bear and chuckled, "I don't know why you keep it so cold in here..."

"I like it cold," Jake replied and let out a tired yawn. He looked over at Lucas and smiled. He knew that he kept the apartment cold, so much so that it really wasn't very different from outside. When the dead of winter came he tended to put on the heat, thought not as high as others. Throughout the seasons his apartment was cool, sometimes even being able to see his breath in it. He wondered if Lucas could tolerate it, or if the wolf was annoyed by it. He felt a small frown cover his muzzle, hoping he wasn't making Lucas angry, "I can turn on the heat if you want..." he said lowly.

Lucas caught onto the bear's tone and realized that Jake was uncomfortable. "No, I didn't mean it like that..." Lucas said, frowning. The bear continually told him that they both lived here, and that it was 'their home.' He was glad to hear the words, but still felt like he would impose on Jake at times. After all, his parents hadn't had the money to afford boarding at the school, and Jake was letting him live here for free. His parents did give him money, which he helped to pay for the expenses of living with Jake, despite the bear's objections, and spent the rest on other things he needed for school, or just saved it. He tried to not ask too much of the bear.

"I don't want you to be uncomfortable..." Jake said, still low, as if he was embarrassed.

Lucas walked up to the bear and hugged him, "I'm pretty sure I've never been more comfortable. Jake, you're helping me out...if you didn't let me stay with you then I wouldn't be able to come to college...I owe you more than you'll ever know,"

"I just want this to be our home Lucas...I don't want you to feel like you have to do something for me, or that one of us is indebted," he said and hugged the wolf in return, "I want us to live together because...well...because I love you..."

"And I love you too Big-guy," Lucas said and nuzzled the bear's chest. He understood what the bear meant, and he wanted to think like that. He had trouble at times though, and guessed Jake did too. He was glad they were living together though; it made things easier and more comfortable. Lucas rubbed the bear's back and chuckled, "And Jake, you're all the warmth I need," he said, and rubbed the bear's stomach.

Jake blushed again and pulled Lucas closer to him. He rubbed the wolf's back with his paws, roaming the wolf's body. He felt Lucas relax onto him and nuzzled the wolf lightly. After a moment he stopped and they both stood for a moment. He let out another yawn and felt Lucas pulling on him. He looked down at the wolf sleepily.

"Come on; let's get you to bed Big-guy," Lucas said and pulled on the bear. He was tired too. They hadn't been able to sleep much lately, and a good night's sleep would be a welcome change. They walked into the bedroom and both undressed; Lucas in his boxers and Jake in his briefs. Lucas watched as Jake lied down and nuzzle a pillow, the bear's eyes quickly closing. Lucas chuckled lightly and walked to the bed and sat down. He lied down next to Jake and felt the bear's arm wrap around him and pull on him, bringing him to the bear's side. He was facing the bear, and nuzzled Jake's chest for a moment, and then leaned up and kissed the bear gently on the lips. "Goodnight Big-guy,"

Jake nuzzled against the wolf, not trying to return the kiss. He pulled on Lucas a bit more and let out a sigh. "Night, Love," he said with a whisper.

Lucas smiled and nuzzled the bear again, resting against Jake's chest. After a moment he could tell the bear was asleep, Jake's breathes hitting him lightly and mumbling lightly. Lucas could never understand what Jake was saying in his sleep, but the bear always talked. Something about it made him feel better, hearing the bear near him made things seem better. Lucas wondered if he talked in his sleep, if he did the bear never said anything about it. He thought if Jake realized that he talked in his sleep, but his thoughts slowed down as he drifted off to sleep.

Lucas woke up to the feeling of Jake nuzzling him lightly. He opened his eyes lightly, it was still dark out. He saw that it was the middle of the night, and that Jake was still asleep-the bear didn't even realize his actions. He didn't want to stop the bear, it felt nice. He felt like the air was stuffy, because he had been facing Jake. He turned around in Jake's arms and nestled back into the bear, feeling Jake pull on him instinctively.

Jake woke up the next morning, forcing his eyes open a bit. He felt rested, like he had actually slept for once. He let out a long yawn and felt Lucas move a bit. He looked down at the wolf, who was still asleep in his arms. He smiled lightly and kissed the top of Lucas's head. He relaxed again, closing his eyes, and occasionally kissing the top of the wolf's head or nuzzling Lucas. It felt nice, beneath the covers it was very warm, and the feeling of Lucas's body against his own was nice too. After a moment he stopped and just lay there, gently rubbed Lucas's chest with a paw and resting his eyes.

Lucas felt the bear's paw running over his chest, tussling his fur lightly. He nestled against Jake and let out a low sigh. At this he felt the bear stop, jerking a little, and Lucas guessed Jake felt bad if he woke him. He nuzzled against Jake, trying to encourage the bear to continue, and was happy when he did.

Jake wasn't sure if the wolf was awake or not, but he guessed Lucas nestling closer to him was a good sign. He nuzzled against the wolf and continued to run his fingers through the wolf's fur. It felt nice, the calmness of the moment. It seemed like forever since they had been able to just lie down and relax. He let out a sigh and kissed the wolf again, and then lay there again. After a moment Lucas spoke and Jake jumped lightly-not knowing Lucas was awake.

"You OK Big-guy?" Lucas asked and felt the bear jump, making him chuckle lightly.

"Yeah...I'm fine," Jake replied and pulled Lucas closer.

"I scare you?" Lucas asked teasingly.

"Of course, waking up and seeing you would scare anyone," Jake came back with.

Lucas laughed and turned over in the bear's arms, "That wasn't nice..."

Jake leaned forward and kissed the wolf on the lips lightly, "Sorry...how about, good morning," he replied.

Lucas returned the kiss, "Better...and yeah, it is," he said and nuzzled the bear. He felt Jake pull him closer. After a moment he pulled away from Jake and sat up. The cool air that met him always felt strange, especially as soon as he woke up. It was a big change; from the warmth of Jake and the covers to the cool air. He got off the bed and walked around to a drawer and pulled out a pair of wind pants, and then grabbed a green hoody and threw it over himself.

Jake got up after the wolf, and put on a pair of wind pants and a white t-shirt. To him the cool air felt nice, it was a good way to wake up in the morning. He looked over at the wolf, "Can I cook us some breakfast?" he said, then chuckled realizing it was a question.

Lucas looked back at the bear, "If you want...you don't have to though,"

Jake walked down the hallway, "I want to," he yelled back to the wolf.

Lucas laughed and adjusted his hoody then followed after Jake. He found the bear digging through the refrigerator. He walked up and stood behind the bear.

"I hope you don't want to try and scare me," Jake said, his voice muffled as the sound had to bounce off the refrigerator to hit Lucas.

Lucas chuckled, and sighed, "How is it that you always seem to know?"

Jake grabbed some eggs and a carton of milk out of the fridge as he stood up straight, "I don't know...maybe you're just too fat to sneak up on people,"

Lucas frowned at the bear and poked him in the stomach, "You know...most people would get offended by that...or at least see the irony of it,"

Jake smiled at the wolf and set down the food in his paws. He returned his attention to Lucas and wrapped his arms around the wolf, "Are you saying something?"

Lucas looked up at the bear, "Yeah, you're bigger than me Big-guy," he replied and kept his arms at his side.

Jake looked down at the wolf, "Yeah...maybe, but that's why you love me," he said and stuck his tongue out at the wolf.

Lucas continued to stare at Jake and finally smiled, "No...I don't think I could list all the reasons why I love you...but yes, I love how you feel...just one of many things," he said and hugged Jake.

Jake blushed and sighed, "You know...you always seem to turn the table...even if I can sneak up on you it doesn't matter. You know how to make me feel flattered,"

Lucas kissed the bear lightly and pulled away, "It's all true though," he said and then looked at the bear, "So, do you need any help?"

Jake looked around the kitchen, "Sure, what do you want to do?" he asked and pulled out a pan.

"I don't know...I don't know how to cook,"

Jake chuckled lightly, "Ok, break the eggs and put them in here," he said and handed the wolf a bowl. He moved over to the oven and began to preheat it and then went back to the refrigerator. Jake moved and grabbed out some meat, cheese, peppers, milk, and more. He heard the wolf muttering, and looked back, seeing an egg leaking down the counter. Jake laughed as the wolf cleaned the mess. "You never break an egg before?"

"I've broken hundreds of eggs...just none correctly," Lucas replied and tried again, this time getting half of the egg in the bowl as he opened it too quickly. He did this again and got it right, and then broke three more eggs for the bear. He handed it to Jake who quickly added milk and pepper. Lucas looked curiously at it, "What are you making anyway?"

"A casserole....I think...I'm making it up as I go," Jake replied with a chuckle and then handed a knife to the wolf. "Here, you can cut the peppers," he said.

"Umm...you sure about that?" Lucas asked as he accepted the knife with a bit of hesitation.

"Yeah...here I'll show you," Jake replied and got behind the wolf. He slid his paws along the wolf's arms till he reached the wolf's paws. He slowly showed the wolf the motions, "Like this...and then you repeat,"

Lucas followed the bear's instructions carefully, and noticed that Jake stayed behind him the entire time. He could feel the bear's breath on the back of his neck as the bear continued to help him. Lucas leaned back and relaxed a bit in the bear's arms, it felt nice and warm. He noticed he finished that the bear was no longer guiding him, instead Jake was holding him more like in an embrace. He was cutting another pepper, this time on his own, and he felt Jake's paws begin to rub him gently. It felt nice, and Jake began to bite and kiss along his neck, making Lucas have to focus much more on his task. When he finished he was glad, and then disappointed as the bear pulled away.

"Good job," Jake said lightly and held the wolf. He let go and grabbed the cutting board the wolf had used and then walked over to a container. He mixed the peppers, meat, and other ingredients together, then put the cheese on top and finally poured the milk mixed with eggs in.

Lucas watched the bear, "So...this is supposed to taste good?" he asked, the combination in that order making him grimace. He didn't know why. He had never watched anyone cook before, much less help out. He was apprehensive about the entire thing.

"It will," Jake replied, and looked back at the wolf, "Of course it's going to have to cook first,"

"Oh...yeah..." Lucas said, "I forgot the whole cooking it thing...so when will it be ready?"

"About...thirty minutes, give or take...I'm making it up as I go," Jake said and set a timer. He sighed and walked over to the couch and lie down. It was only seven in the morning. After a moment Lucas came over and lay down next to him. Jake pulled Lucas closer to him and turned on the TV. There wasn't anything very interesting on, there never seemed to be during the early mornings. Instead of watching the TV Jake found his attention focused on Lucas. He began to bite along the wolf's neck again, and let his paws roam his mate.

Lucas let out a silent moan as the bear's paws began to rub his chest and nuzzled against the bear. They were brought out of their time together by the ringing of a phone. At the sound Lucas chuckled and then reached for it, but stopped before picking it up. He looked back at Jake a bit, "Do you mind?" he asked, meaning for the bear to pull off him, but Jake continued to kiss him.

"No...you can talk, can't you?" Jake asked as he continued to roam the wolf's body and stopped kissing his neck, his attention running to one of Lucas's ears that he began to bite on.

Lucas couldn't help but smile at the bear's response, a part of him glad that Jake didn't stop. The phone was still rining and he quickly pressed the answer button before it was lost. "Hello?" he asked quickly.

"Son?" Mr. Vadikson's voice came out.

"Oh...hey Dad. What's up?" Lucas asked.

"Not much. How are ya'll?" Mr. Vadikson replied. He made sure to call Jake and Lucas quite frequently. He called them at least twice a week to check up on them. At first it was just to check up on them, but now it was just to talk. He enjoyed talking with them; the change they had gone through was impressive. There were still small issues he noticed, when one said something and then stopped for a moment, but those occasions were fewer.

"Umm...we're doing good...besides school trying to kill us," Lucas replied with a chuckle. The timer suddenly went off, and Lucas looked back at Jake. "Don't you need to get that?" Lucas asked.

Jake pulled away from Lucas, and nodded. He got up and went into the kitchen. He grabbed some oven mitts and then got the casserole out of the oven. It had done well, the top was well done and the smell quickly filled the apartment. He set it down as Lucas continued to talk with his father.

Jake enjoyed the frequent calls, they made him feel like someone actually cared, and that Mr. Vadikson liked him. He talked with the wolf almost as frequently as Lucas did, most of the time they spoke on speaker to the elder wolf. He was still getting out utensils and setting them on the table when his thoughts ran to Jim. Jake never got up the courage to tell, but he was till working on it. He spoke to his friend more frequently, and was glad that the gorilla could make him laugh. Jake felt someone behind him, and then heard a voice in his ear, and for a moment thought he was crazy. He realized it was just Lucas, and that the wolf had put the phone next to his ear, and that Mr. Vadikson was saying hello. "Hey, how's it going?" Jake asked.

"Good...I just wanted to say hey, but ya'll are about to eat...so I'll check up on ya'll later,"

"OK...it was good to hear from you...cya later Phill," he said as Lucas pulled the phone away and said his own good-bye.

When they were finally ready Jake felt his stomach growling. He scooped some onto his plate and onto his fork. He blew on it, trying to cool it, and then finally took a bite. He was happy with how it turned out, and looked at Lucas, hoping for the same thoughts.

Lucas did the same as the bear, and then took a bite. He took his time. He enjoyed it, it all tasted great. He was surprised at how good of a cook the bear was. He ate slowly, enjoying each bite and after a moment realized the bear was watching him. He looked up at Jake, "You OK?"

Jake smiled and returned to his meal, "Yeah fine," he said contently. The wolf's actions were enough praise. Jake struck up a conversation about when they should start their hike. It was the weekend coming, and they would have Monday off so they could relax the entire time. Jake found that he was growing anxious for it. When they finished the meal Jake let out a long sigh followed by an equally long yawn.

Lucas smiled at the bear, "Thanks, that was really good. I never thought you'd be able to cook,"

Jake laughed, "Neither did I," he replied. He got up and took the wolf's plate and his own, and then rinsed them off in the sink before putting them away. Turning back around he looked at the wolf, "So...what do you want to do today?"

Lucas frowned, "I was thinking we could finish up our work," he started and saw the bear's frown, "And then just hang out..."

Jake nodded, he knew Lucas was right.

"Sorry Big-guy..."

"No, you're right...we need to keep up with school. But I don't want it to take away from us,"

"It won't...if I ever think it begins to, or if you do, then how about we stop the other? We can just stop and relax,"

Jake smiled at the wolf, "Yeah...that sounds good," he replied. It was nice to know the wolf felt the same way. They both went back and grabbed their books from the previous day. Thankfully they had begun, and there wasn't too much to do. By lunch they finished. Jake saved his files and turned off the computer with a grateful sigh. He got up and walked into the kitchen. He grabbed a glass and drank a quick glass of water. Suddenly the phone rang, and Jake looked over at it. He picked it up, "Hello?"

"Is this Mr. Yellat?" a female voice asked.

"Who's asking?" Jake said, he never said who he was right away.

"This is Frankton Hospital. Did you have an appointment with us a few weeks back?"

Jake felt his stomach churn, what could they want; "Yeah...why?"

"Nothing major...we would just like you to come-in for a few tests. The doctor wants to make-" the voice was saying before Jake interrupted.

"You mean waste her time, my time, and try and drain any money that he can get?"

The receptionist was taken back. She tried to recover, "No sir, of course not. We have only your best interest in mind, and the procedures would not cost...if you have insurance of course,"

Jake sighed, he knew that if he didn't go his mother would find out and then she would force him to go-even if she had to drive up here to do it. He didn't know why they were calling, they had told him he was fine-he felt pretty good. He was tired, but then again, he hadn't slept much. He rubbed his eyes and let out another sigh, "Fine...when can we do this?"

"We can do it this week. Dr. Raymond has already made the arrangements," the receptionist said.

Jake sighed, "Why do I have to do this?"

"It's nothing to be concerned with...you just have to come in and we may have a nurse perform an EKG, an echo, and just a regular check up...Should I explain some of this?"

Jake laughed lightly, "No thank you...I've heard it all before...just tell me when to show up,"

"Friday at four o'clock. Thank y-" the receptionist said.

At that Jake hung up. He growled softly, he really hated doctors. He didn't even think the problem was a big deal. There was a hole in his heart; big deal. He scoffed lightly at it and took another sip of water. It was in a lower valve, meaning, that there was absolutely nothing to worry about, or at least there was little to worry about. It sounded bad, and Jake realized that he needed to stay healthy, but he didn't think it was important to go to the hospital every few years. What was going to happen? Was it going to grow bigger and make him become a black hole? It wasn't going to. It didn't affect him in any way and honestly he was perfectly healthy, he knew more about his condition than most doctors. Jake chuckled lightly and decided to not think about it. He looked at Lucas who was still typing, and felt a smile cover his muzzle. He set down his water and walked over behind the wolf. He wrapped his arms around Lucas, who yelped in surprise.

"Jake!" Lucas yelped. He felt the bear biting on his ear and then stop.

"What? You not done yet?" Jake asked.

Lucas tried to calm down, his heart beating like a drum. He didn't respond to the bear's question, instead returning to work. He had one more problem to complete and then he would be done. He was almost finished. As he returned to his work he felt Jake resume biting on his ear playfully. The bear made it increasingly difficult to concentrate, and Lucas quickly found his attention going elsewhere. With a bit more effort he finished the problem, and then looked at the bear, "You want to stop yet?"

Jake chuckled, "No...not really,"

Lucas nuzzled against the bear, "Who just called?"

Jake grimaced, "No body," he lied.

Lucas knew the bear was lying, it just didn't sound right. From his tone it was obvious that he was hiding something. Lucas tried not to show that he knew though, he didn't want to push the issue. Sometimes Jake not telling him things was just not worth pursuing, at least not verbally. He knew that Jake wasn't telling him a lot of things about him, despite how much the bear did tell him, there was always a detached feeling. Lucas didn't want to know every part of the bear's life; he just didn't want the bear to hide things from him. The fact that Jake was still hiding something that was making him act different made Lucas worried.

The weekend passed quickly as did the beginning of the week. Throughout it as Thursday drew near Lucas noted the bear changing, acting tenser. He wondered if he should ask the bear, but whenever he brought it up the bear changed the subject. Lucas decided to find out what Jake was hiding, one way or another.

Jake didn't want Lucas to worry about him, he was fine. He knew that telling the wolf would make Lucas worry-he didn't want the wolf to worry. Friday finally came and school passed slowly He and Lucas were talking with Mason again, he found that he was beginning to enjoy the tiger's presence. Next to Kaden, Mason was probably his favorite teacher. Jake looked down at his watch and saw the time, he grimaced and looked over at Lucas. "Hey...I've got to go..." he said and immediately began to leave.

"OK...umm, I'll see you at the apartment?" Lucas asked.

Jake nodded and quickly left. On his way out he let out a sigh. After this he could finally relax. He hated lying to Lucas. He thought about telling the wolf, he knew he was acting different. Despite how much he tried, he couldn't make himself act completely normal around Lucas when he was hiding something. He got to his car and quickly left for the hospital. He looked at his clock and felt a pit in his stomach-he was running late and would need to hurry.

Lucas left soon after Jake, he had driven today. He felt sick, but not physically. He was following Jake, it made him feel sick. He wanted to find out where the bear was going, and why he had been acting strange. He was surprised at how fast Jake was driving, the bear never sped, yet he was breaking the limit today. He lost the bear for a minute at one point; he stayed back and didn't want the bear to see him. He saw the bear though, Jake pulled into a hospital. The hospital was easily an hour away from town. Lucas pulled into a parking spot at the end and waited for the bear. He saw Jake walking slowly into the building, and then go up a set of stairs. Lucas drove forward and saw the name of the building; it was the oncology department. He felt his sickening sense grow more. Lucas quickly drove off.

Jake walked up the stairs and found a person to talk to. He walked up to the receptionist, "Hello...umm...is this the cardiology center?"

The receptionist didn't look up, "No...you're looking for the building over...it's just up the hill,"

Jake growled lightly, "Crap...now I really am late," he said more to himself than to anyone else. "Thank you," he said quickly then turned around and began to run. He ran outside, and saw the sign, it clearly read oncology. He chuckled lightly to himself for the stupid mistake and began to run faster, going up the hill to the next building. He quickly ran up and found the correct building. He ran in and talked to a receptionist then filed away all the papers he needed to sign. He found himself in the waiting room, and then felt his phone vibrate. He looked and saw Lucas was calling him, "Hey, what's up?" he asked.

"Not much...you?" Lucas asked, his voice shaking a bit.

"Nothing...you OK?" Jake asked, "You sound shaky,"

"Yeah...I'm fine..." Lucas replied, "You?"

Jake felt his stomach sink a little. Something about the question being redirected made him feel worse, "Yeah...I'm fine. I'm really excited about tomorrow, I can't wait," he said, making conversation.

Lucas chuckled, "Yeah...me too,"

Jake was about to continue when a receptionist came in. She called his name and Jake froze a little. He hoped the wolf couldn't hear anything. "Hey...sorry but I have to go...I love you," he said quietly and hung up.

Lucas stared down at the phone. He felt his stomach sinking. He was worried about the bear. He didn't even get a chance to say good bye. Lucas tried not to worry, and when he got back to the apartment he went in a sat down on the couch, staring at the ceiling. He thought about the possibilities, that he was just overacting, and hoped the bear was alright. Sadly the negative thoughts outweighed the good, and he began to formulate ideas. The reasons the bear had been distant, why Jake didn't say where he was going, why Jake had acted 'out of it' all week. He felt a tear roll down his cheek and he wiped it away, trying to not cry.

Jake waited in a room, a nurse had already taken his blood pressure and they were setting him up for an EKG now. He always hated the hospital, they weren't comfortable, and had a strange smell to them. He had taken off his shirt and had some sticky things being put on him, the nurse joked that it would hurt taking them off. Jake laughed at it, it was true too. He didn't mind the people, that wasn't the thing, it was everything else, it was the location, what happened in them. He wanted to a be bioengineer, maybe be able to keep people out of these places. After the EKG he ripped off the stickers, it hurt a little, but it wasn't bad. Then they wanted to perform an echocardiogram. Jake grimaced, he hated those, and the next part made it even worse. They wanted to do a bubble echo test, meaning that while they were scanning his heart they would have a needle in his arm and trace the flow of blood.

Jake winced as the needle pierced his arm, he hated needles too. He wouldn't say he was scared, just didn't like them-to a very large extent. The nurse then told him the test would start soon. The feeling of whatever they put in him felt strange. It was like his arm was warm, it felt odd. He lay there for the next forty minutes as they scanned his heart, and watched the flow. A TV was on, the news was being played. Jake watched it and was happy to hear that the weather was supposed to be nice. Jake felt himself dozing off, and heard someone talking; next thing he realized he let out a yell as the nurse ripped the needle out of his arm.

"Oh...sorry...you OK?" the nurse asked.

"I'm good..." he replied and reached for his shirt. He put it on and a nurse showed him into the room he had been put in before. He waited for a few minutes before a fox walked in. Jake recognized the vixen as the cardiologist. "Hello Dr. Raymond,"

The fox looked up, "Hello Jake, I'm sorry you had to come back...you told me how much you hate this place,"

Jake felt a bit ashamed, he didn't want to make anyone feel like they were a nuisance, "It's OK..."

"How are you doing, you still feel dizzy?"

Jake chuckled lightly, "Yeah...but hey...I have for almost ten years...I'm used to it now,"

The fox nodded. She looked over a chart and smiled, "Well, it's just like you said before...you seem to be fine, but honestly...are you drinking enough. It would make you less dizzy,"

Jake chuckled lightly, "Oh yes...I drink plenty," he said and noted the fox's reaction. He laughed a bit louder then and corrected his word choice, "Water...I drink plenty of water,"

"Oh, I'm sorry...just you know...you're in college, and..." Dr. Raymond said and then stopped herself, "I'll shut-up before I dig my entire grave,"

Jake grimaced. He knew it; the entire point of this was to make sure he wasn't just lying about his health. They hadn't believed him when he told them that his heart was fine, he tried not to blame them though. He realized that taking a college student's word wasn't very common, and was glad that maybe now they would believe him. They talked for a bit more, she asked him quesionts and he answered them. It wasn't bad. As they finished Jake smiled, "So...neither of us are going to waste the other's time now, right?" he asked.

Dr. Raymond chuckled, "No...I guess not, but we'd like to keep check ups on you every few years,"

"Ten years sound good?" Jake asked.

"You'll be out of school by then, but yes...you need to have it looked at every five to ten years," she replied.

"Ok...fine...and we'll see. I think I like it here," Jake replied with a smile. He had grown to love Kirson, and he thought it might be possible to get a job out of college around here too, but he was still looking at graduate school. He and the doctor talked for a few minutes and then he was let go. He was happy to get out. He took a deep breath, taking in all the air he could as soon as he was outside.

He quickly ran back to his car, running by the oncology apartment again. He drove back to the apartment, but thought it would be nice to get something for himself and Lucas. Jake stopped and pulled into a parking lot. He pulled out his phone looked up a nearby restaurant. He then called, placing his order so that it would be ready when he found it. He picked up it up then headed to the apartment. The food smelled nice, if not a bit strange, but Jake had only had it once before.

He drove through the city slowly, making sure he was careful. He hated driving in big cities, they were way to difficult to navigate. Frankton was the largest city near Kirson, and was actually one of the largest cities in the area. Jake was glad that it was a good distance away from Kirson, he hated being close to such large cities, it made it impossible to see the stars at night.

Jake arrived at the apartment after close to an hour of driving. He walked in, set down the food, and found Lucas on the couch asleep. He walked up to the wolf and sat down next to him, and began to gently rub the wolf's head.

Lucas felt something rubbing his head, and began to nuzzle against it. Suddenly he shot up though, realizing that it must've been Jake. He saw the bear staring at him, smiling lightly. Lucas remembered, he had fallen asleep, and had been worried about Jake. He felt his eyes tear up, and he buried his head in the bear's chest; "Jake..."

Jake didn't know what was going on. He brought the wolf closer to him instinctively and began to mollify him. He waited until the wolf calmed down to question him. "Lucas...what's wrong?"

Lucas held onto the bear for a moment, but instead felt a bit of anger swelling up in him. He looked up at Jake, and immediately his anger went away, followed by more worry. When he finally calmed down he looked back up at Jake, "Where did you go today?"

"I had an appointment..." Jake said as he stroked the wolf's head. "Lucas, are you OK?"

Lucas felt calmer now, "Jake...are you OK? Seriously,"

Jake felt a pit in his stomach again; there had been a lot of those lately. He looked at the wolf, "I'm fine...why wouldn't I be,"

"Jake...you went to the hospital..."

Jake opened his mouth to speak, but stopped. He found himself growing angry for a moment, "You...you followed me?"

"Jake..."

Jake stopped the wolf, "You didn't have the right," He said and pushed Lucas away, but not off him. He looked at the wolf in the eyes. He stared at Lucas for a bit, and found that his anger quickly disappeared. Seeing the wolf as he was made holding any negative emotion impossible.

"Jake, you've been acting strange...I'm worried about you. You went to the oncology department. Jake i-" Lucas began before he was cut off by Jake chuckling.

Jake's chuckling turned to laughter. He saw that Lucas was staring at him strangely, and tried to stop. He tried to speak to Lucas through stifling laughter; "I'm fine..." he said and then tried to convince the wolf, "Really...I am,"

Lucas looked up at Jake, his anger now coming. "Then why wouldn't you tell me what was going on?" he asked accusingly.

Jake looked down at the wolf, "Because it's nothing," he said firmly, defending himself before continuing. "I went to the area of the hospital...I was supposed to go to the cardiologist...you already know about my VSD," he told the wolf. When he first told Lucas about it the wolf hadn't questioned him. He found that Lucas probably regretted that, as the wolf assaulted him with questions.

"Why did you have to go back? Are you OK? What can I do? Is everything alright? Was there a reason you went back?" he asked, finding himself beginning to ask the same thing in a different way.

Jake was taken back by the wolf's sudden change in behavior; worried to sad to angry to worried again. Jake hoped it wouldn't change again. He chuckled lightly, "I'm fine...there isn't much to say. I have a hole in my heart...and as far as holes go...it's in a good location,"

"Is that something to joke about?"

"Well, I don't think worrying about it is going to make it go away," Jake replied.

Lucas felt all his emotions settling down, and found himself being embarrassed for his actions. He looked at the floor, "I'm sorry..."

Jake smiled at the wolf, "You know...I guess this is actually kind of flattering," he said with a chuckle. "I have my own paranoid little stalker,"

Lucas took that as the sign that Jake forgave him. He looked up at the bear, "I am not paranoid,"

"But you are a stalker?" Jake asked the wolf.

"I'd follow you anywhere,"

Jake smiled at the wolf-it felt nice to be cared for. Underneath it all, the wolf's actions actually were flattering; the fact that Lucas did what he did. He leaned down and kissed the wolf. When he pulled away he smiled, "I should've told you...I'm sorry,"

"I'm just glad you're OK," Lucas said and nuzzled the bear again, "I love you,"

Jake hugged the wolf tightly, "I love you too," he said and pulled on Lucas. After a moment his stomach growled. Jake blushed and looked at Lucas who was chuckling at him. Jake smiled, "That reminds me...I got diner," he said and stood up.

Lucas caught the scent of the food that had permeated the air. He realized how hungry he was. He quickly stood up and followed the bear to the kitchen, where a plastic bag was sitting, holding a container where the scent was coming from. He felt himself salivating and wanted to find out what the bear had gotten. The smell was strangely familiar.

"I hope you like it...you know...there is only one type of this restaurant in all of Frankton?" Jake said and pulled out the containers.

"What type?" Lucas asked, curious what the bear meant.

"Well, remember spring break...you ordered Thai for us one day...well, I found one in Frankton," Jake said.

Lucas smiled, "Really? That's amazing," he replied. It was hard to find Tai food; Lucas had only known his town as having it. Whenever he went anywhere there was never a place that prepared it. He looked up at Jake from the food, the bear was smiling at him.

"Sorry...I have no idea what you like though...so I just asked what they would recommend," Jake said and handed the wolf the container.

Lucas chuckled and opened the container, the food was in sections, and that there was a lot of food. There was rice, meat, vegetables, and some curry. Lucas could smell the curry, it was very strong, he hoped it would be good. There were two types in the container, yellow and red. He wondered it Jake would like the curry, it wasn't known for its popularity. They went to the couch and sat down. They sat right next to each other, sharing the large meal. Lucas rubbed his leg against Jake's. Lucas looked at Jake, "If I were you I would try the curry first...you want to know if you like it first,"

Jake nodded and got some onto his fork. It was the red curry. He smelt of it before placing it into his mouth. He immediately grimaced at the taste, and was about the spit it out, but forced himself to swallow. His tongue began to burn, and he grabbed his glass and began to drain it. He could hear Lucas laughing. Jake looked over at the wolf, "That was awful!"

"Ok...so you don't like spicy food?" Lucas asked.

"No! Why didn't you warn me?" Jake asked.

Lucas smiled at the bear and leaned over and kissed him on the side of the muzzle, "I'm sorry...I should've warned you,"

Jake continued to drink, hoping the flavor would go away.

Lucas chuckled, "OK...go for the yellow curry...that should be better,"

Jake looked over at Lucas, "How can I trust you? It's probably hotter," Jake replied.

Lucas laughed, "Not all curry is spicy...I think you'll like this one. Trust me,"

Jake scooped some of the concoction into his spoon. He stared at it for a moment and then ventured it closer to his mouth. He tasted it slowly, but didn't let it spread over his tongue. This time it wasn't too bad. It was strange though, it was hot, but not unbearably so, and at the same time sour. Jake found that he liked it, at least more than the red curry. He looked over at Lucas, "OK...you've redeemed yourself...do you want this?" Jake said, pointing to the red curry.

Lucas nodded. Lucas smiled and tried some of it, he thought it was good. It wasn't too spicy, or at least he didn't think so. He looked over at Jake who was trying a salapao, which is a steamed bun. He saw the bear smile, obviously liking it. They both began to try the other courses in the container. Lucas scooped some of the vegetables onto his fork and looked over at Jake, "Here try some of this," he said and extended the fork to the bear's mouth.

Jake looked at Lucas for a moment. He usually hated it when people tried this sort of stuff, he remembered his mother doing it often when he was a cub. He hated for people to feed him, but with Lucas it was different. Something about the wolf's presence made everything seem different, like everything was fine. Lucas didn't seem to debase him, or make him feel like someone was looking down on him. The wolf smiled at him and Jake opened his mouth and took the vegetables. The mixture was good. He could tell the vegetables were steamed and cooked with a certain sauce, but he didn't know what. He liked it and felt the fork slide off his tongue. He looked over at Lucas who had something different on the fork and extended to the bear. Jake looked at Lucas, "I can feed myself..."

"Yeah...sorry," Lucas replied.

Jake couldn't tell if the wolf was hurt or just comical. But he looked back at Lucas and smiled. "But...then again, I guess things taste better when given from you,"

Lucas chuckled at the bear's change, but didn't say anything, instead letting the bear eat what he offered. When he pulled the fork away from the bear's lips he saw Jake chew and swallow. The bear looked over at him with a smile. Lucas smiled at the bear in return, "Want to try some more of the red curry?" he asked.

Jake grimaced at the wolf, "No..." he said simply and smiled as the wolf began to laugh. They ate the meal and talked with each other, enjoying each other's company. Jake found that he liked most of the food, almost everything except for the red curry. When they finished he was glad that there wasn't much to clean up, besides to throw away the container, and Lucas took care of washing the glasses. Jake was putting up the salt and pepper when Lucas hugged him tightly from behind. Jake let out a grunt of surprise, but quickly relaxed in the wolf's arms. He could feel Lucas nuzzle the back of his neck.

"Thanks...," Lucas said in the bear's ear.

"I just hope I don't lose all this tomorrow..." Jake said with a chuckle.

"You know...we haven't worked out all this year?" Lucas asked with a chuckle.

"I guess not...but you haven't changed at all, unlike me," Jake said.

Lucas rubbed the bear's stomach, and began to moved his paws under Jake's shirt, "Well, not all change is bad,"

Jake nuzzled against the wolf and could feel the wolf's paws begin to run through the fur on his belly. They moved to the couch and sat down, Lucas still hugging the bear. Jake found that this time the wolf was holding him, it was strange, but still had the same comforting effect on him.

"Thanks for tonight...it was fun," Lucas said, nuzzling the bear more affectionately.

"Who says it needs to end?" Jake asked as he rubbed the wolf's arms that were around him.

Lucas chuckled leaned his head on the bear's shoulder, "I don't think we should...it's getting late and we need to get up early if we want to hit the trail,"

Jake frowned but then felt a smile cover his muzzle, "You're always a tease," he said to the wolf.

Lucas laughed and pulled away from the bear, "I have to have something to do," he said.

Jake smiled, the wolf made him want the day to already be here. He turned around and grinned at Lucas. He leaned forward and kissed the wolf gently on the lips. They didn't move though. Neither making the effort to get up and head to the bed room. Jake returned to relaxing in the wolf's arms; Lucas's breaths running over his ear. Jake felt his own eyes begin to droop and tried not to fall asleep. He realized that Lucas was already asleep. He thought about getting up and taking them to the bed room, but decided against it, sleep quickly over taking him.