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Chapter Text

01

first prom & then

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Thousands of years ago, the world was divided in two — predator and prey — then, overtime, society evolved and moved beyond such primitive ways of thinking and living.

And while this harmony can probably be said of countless mammals across the Tri-Burrows, little is known to the feelings and views of those with great standing in the proud city of Zootopia...especially the students of the prestigious Zootopia Academy. . .who regard it merely as some rite of passage. Zootopia students (at least those who consider themselves as some mammal who matter) don't go associating themselves with charity cases of the prey family. No, they can only rub and shake paws with future members of the high Zootopian society.

Which was why the majority of the predator students have become fixated on who gets accepted to their beloved school and, even more so, who stays. To attend Zootopia Academy, and to not know one's place, would be a terrible mistake and (not to mention) a scandal from which any young mammal would never be able to recover.

Imagine the chaos that erupted a few years ago, when a Mammal Inclusion Initiative Scholarship recipient not only snagged the most sought-after Oxcars for Best Original Song but showed up in a dress from Mousy's (the horror!) and even caught the eye of the Zoo York Times reporter, who ended up putting her, and her music journey, on the cover of the Pop-Star sensation volume. To that point, most students tolerated at least two or three preys in each class — until they decided it was too much.

Only a few months after that last straw, the hazing began. Most of the mammal scholars couldn't even last more than a year. The program only continued because some members of the board of trustees were adamant about diversifying the student body (by that, they meant having prey students from all across the country) and boosting the academic record as well as extracurricular programs of the school. And given their circumstance, as well as the opportunities presented to them — mostly education wise — the handful of scholarship recipients try their best to put up with said unpleasant behaviors. After all, everything in this world has a price. . .especially to pay for the best teachers, resources, and connections in Zootopia. And that price — condescension taunts, pranks — got old pretty quickly.

It was anything but easy. In fact, it took the newest mammal scholar from Bunny Burrows only three days before she broke down in tears. Fortunately, she was alone in her room, and nobody saw her bawl her eyes to sleep. But it did happen...and Judy should know. Because that was her room, as well as her tears. She was but a meek prey of a scholar with a giant target on her back.

And she has to do 'everything' that's possible to avoid getting hit not only in the back, but more so in the heart.

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Chapter Text

02

new semester & dresses

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The stomachache would always start for Judy even before the train pulls out of Bunny Burrows Station. When she first took the trip to Zootopia, which was a momentous occasion not just for her family but also for the entire Tri-Burrows, she had more than a kaleidoscope of butterflies (along with the chutney-glazed carrots she had for lunch) in her stomach, but just several months after that, she knew 'better' — her empty tummy (a result of vomiting at the thought of coming back to the city) now holds nothing but a can full of dead worms.

On the plus side, part of Judy knew that she should've been impressed that she'd been able to survive her first semester at the academy. She had expected to have some difficulties coming in as the first bunny scholar, but nothing could've prepared her for the cold, not to mention wet, greeting given to her by several mammals on her floor.

They thought a proper 'hello' was throwing a fruit shake in her face on her way to orientation. She could still feel the cold shock of the orange slush hitting her face. In the end, she was late not only to orientation but also for half of her classes that day, and when Headmaster Leodore Lionheart asked her for an excuse, her only reply was that she'd gotten lost. The snickering throughout the room made her wonder just how many students had been in on the hazing.

Since then, most of the other things they did to Judy were 'subtler'. Like replacing her shampoo with fur removal lotion (which she luckily had smelled before it caused her any real damage), or tampering with her carrot pen so it would play inappropriate recording during study halls, or putting crushed-up laxative jellies in her breakfast oatmeal, or changing her gym locker combination after swim class (which made her walk back to the girls' dormitory still drench from her ears to her tail)...

Judy closed her eyes and tried to block out her first weeks at the academy with a long sigh.

She truly had every intention of coming back from their winter break with a positive attitude. She already knew whom to avoid (which pretty much includes everybody except for her roommate, Priscilla Tripletoe, and the remaining mammal scholar in her class, Dawn Bellwether). She was doing well in her classes. She already established herself as the top pianist on campus (which was really important since she was a scholarship recipient for the school's music program). And she also had a job that she liked because it enabled her to interact with somewhat normal mammals (or 'local townies' as she likes to call them) ...and earn her well-needed money (it always seemed to come back to money. . .or in her case, her lack thereof).

Then there was Sylvia Otterton, Judy's piano teacher and one of the most prestigious music instructors in the city. Mrs. Otterton was also on the board of directors at countless institutions, and she had the reputation of getting her students into the top music programs upon graduation. She was the reason why the small-town bunny came to Zootopia and was why Judy had subjected herself to what came along with being a Mammal Inclusion Initiative Scholarship student.

As the train passed by the many districts of Zootopia, Judy grasped onto the Beethooven themed scrapbook her siblings back home had made her for Christmas. She flipped through the pages of photos, notes, memories from her 'other' life. The life in which she had a tight circle of mammals, those that never made her question whether she belonged. She smiled as she looked at the pages filled with photos from the many traditions and holiday gatherings they have. Then she reached the final pages of the scrapbook — they're filled with the programs of her various recitals and concerts over the years and photos of her entire family and friends gathered around her to celebrate. The very last page had a program from a concert by Jacqueline Savoie, the renowned pianist that Judy looks up to, along with a note signed by everyone from her parents, to her almost a dozen siblings, and even her friends: "To the next Jacqueline Savoie, we miss you but know you're going to accomplish great things and become anything you want. Don't forget us when you're playing at the Furnegie Hall."

The bunny's eyes began to sting with tears. She could never forget her dream, but she had almost forgotten what it was like to have a supportive group of mammals cheering her on. She wiped her eyes and tried to hold on to the memory tightly so it wouldn't slip away. She found it amazing how just two weeks away from campus has given her a false sense of security. And as the train pulled into the biggest station in the country, she envisioned a force field, like an emotional hamster-ball, enveloping her body.

Judy now knew better than to let any childish taunts get the best of her as her barrier was put up and there was no way she was going to let anybody in (well, except for one of the few mammals she couldn't wait to see when she got on campus).

"Oh. . .my, Judy!" Priscilla greeted her when she walked into their room.

The sloth visited her a few times in the Rainforest District over the break, since one of the doe's many relatives lived right across Vine and Tujunga. Priscilla even came to the party her cousins were hosting and impressed even her most critical family members with her kindheartedness. She knew that somehow, somewhere, someone had to be looking out for her to have Priscilla as her roommate.

After they caught up (which was an hour and a half, give or take) Priscilla wanted to get down to 'business'. "So, Judy. . .we have a. . .very important. . .decision to make." Her friend went over to her more spacious closet and pulled out three equally beautiful dresses. "Which one. . . should I wear. . .for tonight?"

Judy's stomach dropped. Zootopia Academy was hosting an upper-class reception with its partners and sponsors — the official reason being to welcome the returning students who spent last semester abroad — but the doe had a feeling it was more of a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the infamous hunting season (or what most mammals would refer to as 'prom date invitations').

"You promised. . .you would go!" Priscilla reminded her, as she went for the carnation dress with a sweetheart neckline that Judy had pointed out.

"I know, I know." the lapin tried to sound more optimistic than usual. But unfortunately, even though sloths have a reputation for being slow-paced, her friend could always see through her.

"Hmmmn. . .why don't you. . .try this on?" A breath-taking (albeit expensive) lilac dress the bunny has never seen before was carefully handed to her.

Judy's paw brushed over the still attached tag and flips it over to read: Preyda, size XS. "Sweet cheese and crackers!" she gasped and tried to push the dress back to her friend's paw. "Oh no, I can't...I-I mean- this is, it's too much and you know I-" Priscilla only shook her head and reached for a pair of scissors to cut the string. "-wha-wait...No, no, no! Izzy"!

"There. . .now I can't. . .return it." the sloth cheekily grinned back at a stupefied doe. "And I also. . .can't wear it. . .so hah-"

"Alright, alright, Ms. Tripletoe, point taken." With a defeated sigh and a quick hug of gratitude, Judy accepted the dress and helped a giggling Priscilla to get ready first.

Half an hour later, as Judy was standing in the middle of their room (half naked), Priscilla's cousin, Diana, burst through the door. The younger sloth didn't believe in knocking...or doing anything remotely considerate. And just as Priscilla zipped up her friend's dress, Diana flounced on the bunny's bed and squealed, "No. . .way!. . .Is that what. . . you're going to wear?"

"I know. . .right?" the older one declared, "Judy looks. . . stunning!"

The bunny smiled. "Only because I'm wearing a dress you specifically 'bought' for me this time, Izzy." She always had to borrow clothes from Priscilla (regardless of their size) anytime they had an important event - and Zootopia Academy has a never ending list of these events.

"Oh. . .right." Diana's face fell. "Sorry, Judy. . .It's just that. . . when Izzy lends you. . . some of her clothes. . . you can't seem to make . . .them work 'cause they. . . don't 'really' fit."

"Dinah!" Priscilla scolded her cousin. "Be polite. . .remember? Especially. . ." she let her thought trail off but both Judy and Diana knew what the other sloth meant.

Priscilla and Diana's grandfather had been demoted off his CEO status over Christmas when the Furs National Bank (which the Tripletoe family owned for decades, now) had to merge with another investment company. Not that it mattered that much — the patriarch folivoran still received a massive payout and money didn't seem like an issue — although as word spread throughout campus, mammals would've thought his two granddaughters came back from the holidays with leprosy.

As Priscilla applied her final touches to Judy's makeup, Diana began whining. "It's just. . .not fair!. . .Why does Judy. . .get to come with you. . . and I don't? Ugh. . . You better let me. . . go prom dress shopping. . . with you next time."

Judy saw a hint of blush form in her friend's face. "Shopping?. . .Nobody's been asked. . . to anything-"

"-yet. . ." Diana countered. ". . .especially with a. . . certain someone. . . returning from his. . . semester in Furrance!" the younger sloth jumped up on her cousin's bed, acting years younger than the academy student she was, and even put her hand up to her heart. "Oh, Flash Slothmore. . .how I missed you!" She then proceeded to drop onto the bed with an exaggerated sigh.

"That's. . .it!" Priscilla shooed Diana out the door. "Out. . .you!. . .We need to. . . go in a bit. . .anyway." The former began adjusting her necklace, a habit Judy learned as the sloth's nervous tick.

Flash Slothmore had spent the previous semester studying abroad in Purris. Before he left, Priscilla and Flash had started to get close. From what her friend told Judy, nothing really happened, since they knew there was about to be thousands of miles between them. Priscilla generally kept her feelings close to the vest, but with Flash's imminent arrival, she had become openly giddy - especially once her cousin was out of the room.

"Oh, Flash. . . how I missed. . .you so!" Priscilla called out, laughing. But then she must have felt that was too much as she examined herself in the mirror and added, "I shouldn't get. . .my hopes up. . .he probably Muzzle Timed. . .with a lot of. . .girls last semester."

"You know that's ridiculous, Izzy!" Judy huffed. "Seriously! If Flash is half the mammal, you told me he is, then he'd be an idiot to not ask you to prom or out at all!" She got up from the edge of her bed and stood beside her friend with paws on her hips. Out of the many wonderful things about Priscilla (besides her kindness), the doe always found it incredibly nerve wracking how her friend had absolutely no idea how beautiful she is. The Tripletoe heiress was completely void of vanity.

"Sorry, Judy. . .I'm just excited to see. . . him again," Priscilla went on. "I'm sure he'll. . . have tons of mammals. . . fighting over him. . .for anything."

"That may be the case, but..." Judy quipped. "there's only one worthy mammal Mr. Slothmore could ever fight for - and that's you, Izzy."

Priscilla promised that Flash was different from most of the predator students anyone would have the 'pleasure' of meeting. Or that talking with him would not end in some kind of conversational purgatory, with no hope of being released without significant damage to one's self-esteem. And for her friend's sake, Judy prayed she was right about Flash being unlike the ninety percent of the student population.

The sloth took Judy by the paw. "You're really. . . kind, Judy." The two shared a smile. "Try to enjoy. . . yourself tonight. . .okay? You'll have fun. . .I promise!"

Judy desperately wanted to believe that she could be accepted and treated like a normal student at school. But after last semester, she had no desire to be friends with most of the mammals on campus. How could she be friends with the same mammals who found so much pleasure in belittling and torturing her?

No, Judy knew better. She would do her best to have an incident-free evening - her armor was up, and she was ready.

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Chapter Text

03

welcome party & judgments

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Judy and Priscilla entered the reception with their paws linked. The Founders' Hall was decorated with colorful lights of various sizes that glistened off the floor-length windows and crystal chandeliers. Even after months, the bunny still wasn't used to the grandeur of the buildings in the academy. Her old school back in Bunny Burrows consisted of cement blocks and fluorescent lighting, and not rich mahogany with stained glass.

"Oh wow. . .it's so pretty," Priscilla reminded her friend as they both took in the view. Or at least Judy did - the sloth was unabashedly scanning the crowd, obviously looking for Flash. "Just imagine. . . what they'll do. . . for prom?" she asked.

The doe fought back a groan. She has heard so much about prom in the city, but she tried to not think about it. She knew for some time now that she wouldn't be able to go. Most of the students couldn't bear to look at her without a hint of disgust, let alone want to ask her anything. And the standards were so ridiculously high. The present mammals in the room for the current event were more dressed up than any Tri-Burrow politician. If this was just a 'reception', then she couldn't imagine what the most-awaited prom night would be.

Not five minutes later, Priscilla was approached by a female lynx with hair done up in an elaborate twist and diamonds (actual diamonds) dripping from her ears and wrist.

"Priscilla, dear," the feline purred, making it sound half like a greeting and half like a formality.

"Hello. . .Beatrix!. . .Welcome back. . . How are you. . . settling in?"

"Fabulously. I know I haven't been able to catch up since the lot of us returned from Purris...but things just have been so hectic." Beatrix began to look Judy up and down. "And who might you be, dear?"

Priscilla put an arm around Judy's shoulder. "This is. . .my friend. . . Judy Hopps. . .She started. . .last semester."

"Charmed. Miss Hopps, is it? I'm afraid I don't know your family. Where are you from?"

'Here we go' Judy thought, questions like this were always the start for her torture. It wouldn't take too long after asking questions about her family, and what they do for a living, or how much is their household's annual income (minus the taxes, of course), that her true identity would be revealed.

"The Burrows" the bunny deadpanned.

Beatrix's hazel eyes comically widened. "Pardon?"

Judy wasn't sure if she was just imagining it, but she might have detected a slight accent. Although she'd been at the academy the same amount of time Beatrix had been abroad, Judy knew she nor Priscilla wasn't speaking with an entitled accent unlike the lynx.

"Bunny Burrows. You know, part of the Tri-Burrows? I'm a mammal scholar, from outside Zootopia." the doe decided it would be best to get it out of the way.

"Oh, I see." the feline crinkled her nose as if she could smell the mediocrity coming from the lapin. "Anyway, Priscilla dear, lovely to see you. Bond soon, yeah?" She air-kissed the folivoran goodbye and turned without giving Judy a second look.

"That's Beatrix Swift. . .Flash's stepsister," Priscilla told her friend once the lynx was out of earshot.

"She's his what?!" Judy tried not to yell. "Izzy, if I didn't before, 'now' I question your taste in guys."

The sloth grimaced. "Flash is nothing. . . like that. He's. . . really close with her. . . and maybe cares. . .what she thinks. . .but Flash is. . . he's. . ." she became flushed. "He's right. . . over there!"

The bunny followed her friend's gaze as the two mammals, who just entered, seemed to have caused the halt of every conversation in the room. The two couldn't have looked more different (besides the fact that one was a sloth and the other was a fox). The one on the left, Flash, was walking around the room, smiling and greeting mammals. He had the same body structure as Priscilla — though slightly bulkier — and his blue eyes also sparkled with positive energy like hers. Everybody seemed overjoyed to see him, and he, in turn, seemed genuinely as excited to be there. The other guy, however, was harder to read. He was quite slender with a vibrant red fur but with a look of eternal disdain etched upon his face. Judy might have found him quite handsome if he hadn't looked like he either was writhing in pain or contemplating a scheme.

"Who's the 'mammal' he's with?" Judy whispered.

Priscilla let her glance leave Flash for a moment. "Oh that's. . .Nicholas. . .Wilde." She whispered back.

"Is there something wrong with him?" the bunny asked a bit louder this time, as the scattered chattering returned to the hall.

Priscilla only shrugged her shoulders. "He does look. . . a little upset. Nick. . . can sometimes. . . be overly serious. . . but his brood is worse. . . than his bite. Once you get. . .to know him. . .at least."

Judy had a feeling there weren't going to be many mammals in the reception that she would want the chance of knowing (even if they belong to the slightly attractive category). 'And the feeling would be mutual'.

"Izzy!" Flash made his way right to the blushing sloth. "Just the mammal. . . I've been waiting. . . to see!" He threw his arms around and hugged her tightly.

Priscilla was speechless, and her highlighted hair could not even disguise her reddening face.

The male forlivoran, beaming from ear to ear, turned to Judy. "Hi. . .I don't think. . . we've met. . .I'm Flash Slothmore."

"Nice to meet you, Flash, I'm Judy Hopps."

He shook the bunny's hand and gave her a warm smile. "Judy, so good to. . . finally meet you too. . . I've heard all. . . about you from Izzy. . . She says nothing. . . but the nicest things."

'That's because Izzy is a saint', the doe heard herself almost say. Her friend couldn't say anything bad about anybody even when she and Dawn had tried to get her to.

Flash turned to his fox friend, who had been silently watching the exchange. "Nick. . .come on and. . . say hi to Izzy. . .and her friend. . . Judy."

Nicholas stepped forward and gave Priscilla a quick kiss on the cheek. Then he turned towards Judy with his eyebrows raised, and as his emerald eyes locked with her amethyst ones, an unexplainable rush went down her spine.

"Hi there," he said, shaking the lapin's hand and giving her a small, albeit curious smile.

"Hello," Judy replied. She was slightly unnerved by Nick's weird expression. He could have been judging her. Or he could have been making acquaintances. Or he could have been plotting a way to throw her into the pond outside the school grounds. But the fox only opened his mouth to (probably) say something (else), thought the 'better' of it, then decided to walk briskly away from their company.

Flash laughed this off. "I don't think. . . Nick has recovered from. . . the jet lag. . . Judy, it's really. . . a pleasure to meet you. . . but would you mind if. . . I take Izzy away. . . for a dance?"

'Jet lag? Yeah, right!' That seemed to be the least likely reason for Nick's rudeness to Judy, but Flash and Priscilla were so desperate to be in each other's paws on the dance floor that the bunny could hardly prolong the conversation. As the two sloths began to dance, she walked aimlessly around the cavernous hall trying to find Dawn, one of her other friends on campus. She weaved through conversations between her fellow classmates — conversations she couldn't be a part of because she couldn't brag — about opulent holiday gifts nor tales of exotic destinations. After a few minutes of meticulous dodging (and feeling like she was being watched), she finally gave up and went over to the food and refreshments table and began to fix herself a plate of the green bean casserole.

"Looks like it's true what they all say, huh?" Phern Beaverly, daughter of a shady real estate tycoon (and owner of Beaverly Hills Hotel), said as she came up behind Judy. "You can take the mammal out of the farm, but you can't take the farm out of the mammal."

Comments like this would just bounce off the doe's shield. No, she didn't have a trust fund. In truth, she doesn't really understand what a trust fund for or was, except, only, that it makes mammals act like humongous jerks. She always found consolation in the fact that she was 'genuinely' more intelligent than the majority of the students in her year, and that while most of them had gotten into the academy because of birthright and upbringing, she, humbly enough, made her way by pure talent - alone. 'After all, wealth can only buy mammals so much'.

Judy turned around and smiled sweetly at her. "I'm guessing Mr. Beaverly doesn't think that plowing lands and harvesting crops are impressive, either. But then again how would he - when most of the sites he builds his ugly buildings at were previously owned by helpless yet honest farmers who were unlawfully kicked out of their lands by false promises — so who am I to judge?"

"How dare you!" The seething beaver picked up a discarded bowl of carrot-chowder soup and smirked malevolently as she poured it onto Judy's dress. "Oops," Phern said with a smile as she 'innocently' walked away from the scene.

The bunny's upper thighs began to burn from the still-hot food. She tried to not make any noise as she quickly grabbed napkins. She could feel her eyes sting not only from the prickling sensation but also from the inevitable humiliation she would face as she walked back to their dorm later.

"Are you okay?" A paw was on Judy's shoulder, and instinctually she pulled away slightly. . .then all at once when she realized whose paw it was - Nicholas Wilde.

"Huh? Oh sorry. Yes, I'm wonderful!" the doe exclaimed. "Great food. Great music. 'Great' party. . ."

Judy went to the corner to try and save Priscilla's expensive gift. The last thing she needed was to go to the restroom since it was one of the most vulnerable places on campus, an easy trap (just one of the many lessons from her 'fine' education last semester).

"Here." Nicholas came over and handed her some napkins soaked in seltzer water.

"Thank you." She had to try to nonchalantly put her arm up the dress to wipe off her legs.

"It really is a 'great' party." The fox leaned in. "So wonderful that it makes you want to hate it. . .especially when you're only dragged by your friend."

"Ha-ha-ho! Guess that's one of the many things Flash and Izzy have in common - their powers of persuasion."

"And despite our better judgments, we've allowed ourselves to be persuaded - or should I say pressured?"

"Hmn-mnn, well, guess the two of us at least have that in common."

Nicholas looked at her with intrigue behind his eyes. "And what makes you think we don't have 'anything' else in common?"

Judy let out a little laugh. She had forgotten that the vulpine didn't know about her or her real situation.

The fox studied the bunny's face for a moment with a weird expression again, before turning his attention back to the matter of the ruined dress with a shake of his head. "Is it coming out?"

The doe could only shake her head. While the dress was high quality, it had a delicate layer that was becoming crusty from the viscosity of the soup and the chunks of vegetables in them.

"Izzy's going to hate me," she muttered with a sigh.

Now with confusion written all-over his face, Judy braced herself for the todd's next question. "Why would Priscilla hate you?"

"This dress was a gift from her. I could never own a dress as half-nice as this. And maybe, now, she'll let me stay in our room once and for all instead of trying to turn an ugly duckling into a swan with store-bought feathers."

"Oh." Something had begun to register on the fox. His mildly amused look had been replaced with a slow understanding of what was 'truly' going on. It irritated Judy that he seemed to be helpful and genuinely concerned for her regardless of species... until he found out about her deepest, darkest, secret.

"Yes, I'm a scholarship student."

Nicholas outwardly grimaced at the word scholarship. It was as though the mere mention of them charity cases caused him a week's worth of migraine.

"Right," he cleared his throat. He gestured again to the soup stain of Judy's half-ruined dress. "Well, since anyone can remove a stain on their own, I will take my leave and bid you 'adieu'." Then he left as abruptly as he'd come.

Judy badly wanted to retort back, but she could only keep her mouth shut as she took in her current state: a meek bunny with paws full of soup-soaked napkins with a few rogue slices of carrots and a bruised ego. She shouldn't have been surprised that once Nicholas found out the truth about her, he wouldn't want to be seen in her presence.

She guessed this was a reminder from the universe that nothing was going to change this semester for her. She was who she was, and she should have considered herself lucky that there were at least a couple mammals who accepted her.

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Chapter Text

04

scholarship students & preys

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Not a second was wasted as Judy headed straight towards the exit after that encounter. She had tried to make an effort for her best friend, and now her effort was done - it was best not to tempt fate any further than that. 'I hope you won't get mad Izzy, but it's far better to be safe than sorry.'

"Well, hello, Judith," a voice interrupted.

Judy stopped dead in her tracks. 'This evening certainly wasn't going to get any better'.

"Hi Gareth," the doe replied, unenthused.

Gareth Woolsworth was one of the few prey students who was born and raised in Zootopia, and one of the fewer mammals who would talk to Judy. At first, she thought it was because he was a bigger person than his breeding dictated. (At least one member of his infamous family has had a seat in the Zootopian Congress for decades.) But soon the bunny realized that his friendliness towards her was because he was quite possibly the most boring person in the world, and only a couple of mammals could tolerate being in a conversation with him.

Not surprisingly, nobody thought of giving Judy a heads-up before she got stuck in an hour-long discussion (although, can it really be a discussion if only one of the mammals involve was doing the talking?) with him at the beginning of the year about the benefits of private education (and cripes, were they many — and he even listed all of them, alphabetically). By the time he was through, he was as surprised as Judy was that she was still standing there. Ever since, the odd yearling ram has sought his fellow prey out at any social events they have had.

"How were your holidays?" he asked Judy, rather curtly.

"Oh um, it was uh-fine. And yours?"

"Magnificent— we went to our house in Tundratown for Christmas. The weather there for that time of year is simply most agreeable. The record low temperature is sixty-five-point-three degrees Fahrenheit, and it didn't even come close to that. In fact, it was well above the average of sixty-nine-point-eight degrees Fahrenheit, which was a miracle, I tell you. A miracle." He brushed off a piece of fur from his tweed jacket.

Gareth not only dressed like he was thirty years older than his actual age, but he even speaks like an elderly professor - both in his choice of words and the amount of time it took him to get out a sentence. "I do enjoy getting out of the cold, where the average temperature for December hovers around forty degrees Fahrenheit. Which is better than the January average — but still. How about yourself? Where did you spend Christmas?"

"Near V&T and back"

He looked at her blankly.

"My aunt lives across Vine and Tujunga. . .in the Rainforest District but our family home is far back in the Burrows"

"Oh I see, how quaint."

"Yes, 'very' quaint." Judy glanced around, hoping to spot Priscilla so she could save her. But her friend and Flash were looking very cozy in a corner.

"How are you enjoying this reception?" Gareth asked her again.

"To be honest I-I — "

"Personally, the staff did a marvelous job decorating the hall. The lights are reminiscent of the ones we had inside our main foyer at our house in Savanna Central. I don't think any mammal can properly decorate for the holidays without colorful lights. They truly are beautiful whether in the dessert or— "

"Gareth!" Judy interrupted. (If she doesn't cut him off, she will never be able to leave.) "I, uh-uhm, spilled chowder on my dress, and I really need to get back to clean up."

"Oh, I'm so sorry to hear that. You know, the best thing for a stain is to soak it overnight in hot water then rinse it with cold water. At least that's according to my former nanny, and let me tell you, she had certainly seen some stains back in her days with us. My older sister, Sharla, and I never saw a mud field that we didn't — "

"Gareth, I really need to go." The bunny didn't even wait for the ram to say goodbye. She hated being rude to him because he was always nice to her, but she was so miserable that she didn't think she could handle another word (or in his case, an entire lecture) from his mouth.

Judy was only a few yards away from the exit when she saw none other than Nicholas Wilde standing there, looking at his watch. Before he could see her, however, she ducked behind a column, trying to figure if there was another way she could leave without him noticing. As she did, she spied Flash coming over to talk with his friend, blocking any escape route she could've had.

"Nick. . .isn't it great. . . to be back?" she heard Flash say. "You have to admit. . . this is a welcome sight. . .especially after months. . .in Furrance."

"Hardly," the todd spat drily. "I am starting to think that I should've listened to Dad and stayed in Furrance. Being back in Zootopia has just been harder than I thought it would be. I don't know why I let you drag me to these things. The mammals here are practically foaming at the mouth over parties and prom." With a sigh, he continued." Yet here I was, under the impression that academy girls had class. Silly me, huh?"

Flash laughed, like his friend was performing one of his skits. "What are you. . . talking about?. . .You've clearly let . . .all the foreign rain. . . dampen your spirits. . .How could you. . . say that about Bea. . .and my Izzy?. . .And what about her. . .best friend Judy?. . .You should ask. . . that girl to dance. . .you know?"

Nicholas groaned, louder than any mammal normally would. "No, I don't think so, buddy. Did you know that she's a scholarship student? "

"Yes. . .and?"

"And you really 'believe' that they've become best of friends? Just like that?"

"Of course. . .I do." There was an eerie silence. "Nick. . .not every mammal-"

Judy heard a spine-chilling growl. "Are you really that naive to 'think' that the first mammal I would 'want' to greet with open arms my first weekend on campus is some Podunk prey? A 'dumb' bunny? And a scholarship student, at that? Really, Flash? I went to Purris to get away from mammals like th-"

A flurry of mammals heading to the restrooms blocked the view of Judy's hiding place for a second, so she took the perfect opportunity to run away. She didn't want to hear another word from the fox. She stayed along the border of the hall until both Nicholas and Flash had left and the exit was clear as the night sky. She couldn't believe that he had so much open hatred for the preys and the unrich.

'Maybe he's right? I really am just a dumb bunny' Judy thought. Maybe it was silly of her to think, even for that short moment while he was helping her, that Nicholas was any different from anyone else around here - but he was the same.

Elites like him were all the same.

And maybe - for the love of Karma, the bunny hoped - Priscilla, was the only apple in the bunch who hasn't nor would ever turn rotten.

Judy had proven it to be true when, not an hour later, a fretting Priscilla returned from the reception earlier than some mammal would've expected. The doe had just gotten back from her brisk shower at the communal bathroom and was almost finished with her nightly routine if not for the sloth almost crushing her in a tight hug.

"Judy. . .where did you. . . run off to?" Priscilla asked her friend. "Are you. . . all right?. . . I was so worried. . .about you."

"I'm so sorry, Izzy." the doe could only sigh. "I-I got soup on the dress you just bought. Well, actually, Phern Beaverly got soup on the dress. O-Or, if we're going to need the actual motive behind it, Miss Beaverly Hills wanted to pour soup on me, b-but your gift was in the way." She continued to stammer. "However you look at it, I had a really, 'really' bad night."

"Oh, Judy. . .Judy. . .Don't even worry. . . about the dress."

"B-But Izzy, just imagine if it was one of 'your' dresses?! I-I don't think even dry cleaning would fix it, and I'm sure it was 'very' expensive. I'll pay you back for it o-once I receive my salary this month o-or I–"

Priscilla sat the Judy on her bed. "Hush you. . . I truly don't mind. . . what happened to. . . the dress. . .I care more. . .about you. . .Are you. . .sure you're. . . okay?"

The bunny nodded. She didn't have the energy to tell the sloth about Nicholas Wilde or his tirade. Plus, she was positive her friend's evening had been the opposite of hers. The folivoran's face was the embodiment of glowing. "Hmn-mnn, and I'll be much better once you tell me all about what happened between you and Flash tonight," she offered.

The glow turned into a blaze. "Oh my. . .Judy it was. . .amazing! We spent the entire. . . evening together. . . He wanted to hear. . . every detail about. . . my holidays. . . He didn't even. . . shy away about. . .what happened with. . .my gramps. And. . . he really wants. . .all of us to. . . meet up soon."

"That's great- wait...all of us?"

"Judy. . .I really want. . . you to get. . . to know Flash."

"Well, I have to admit, he truly seems like a good mammal, Izzy."

"He really is. . .and, Nick is. . . also quite the catch. . . don't you think, so?"

A cackle escaped Judy's throat. "Nick? As in, Nicholas Wilde?" The todd's name sounded offensive to her. "Seriously, Izzy? I know you only see the 'good' in mammals, but, that fox is so full of himself. 'And'," she raised her finger to present her argument. "I happen to overhear him tell Flash that he went away to Purris to basically get away from preys and scholarship students, like me."

"Oh. . .stop it. . .Judy!"

"What? I'm telling the truth."

Priscilla patted the bunny's knee. "You probably. . .just misunderstood. . .whatever you heard."

"Right, because it's easy to misunderstand him saying" Judy cleared her throat and tried her best impression of the vulpine. "I went away because I'm a miserable jerk who can't be in the presence of any dumb mammal who has no trust fund?"

That made the sloth laugh. "Ah-huh. . . if he actually. . .said that."

"Okay, okay. I might be...paraphrasing a little. But I promise you this–" Judy took both of her friend's paws. "-I am more than willing to go and get to know Flash better. I'm looking forward to it, in fact." Then she carefully dropped them to cross her shorter arms with a huff. "But I make no promises when it comes to that Nicholas Wilde. Unless, of course, 'some mammal' could promise that I never have to see him again."

"I'd promise, again. . .but we both know. . .how it went, and. . .how your night ended." Priscilla offered with a small smile.

Not even trying to hide her disappointment, Judy crawled in bed that night with one goal in mind: 'Then I guess I'll just try everything I can to avoid him at all costs."

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Chapter Text

05

big donut & overtip

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Monday morning, during study hall, Judy found the other mammal on campus that she calls a friend besides Priscilla, an ewe named Dawn Bellwether - whose wool was buried behind a stack of textbooks in the common room as she jots down notes and mumble to herself.

"Whatever happened to our 'no prey mammal left behind' pact, huh?" the doe threw her backpack down in the seat next to her classmate.

Dawn looked up from her book, startled. "Ah, Judy! I-I'm so sorry. I h-had every intention of going, b-but a nice quiet evening in my room was j-just too irresistible." She surveyed the books around them. "A-and I wanted to have a head start on the readings and w-what nots for this semester, b-because well, I-I, you know ..."

And Judy 'did' know.

Both of them were on permanent probation. Dawn was on an academic scholarship, so the ewe couldn't get below an A-minus average. While as a music and academic scholarship recipient, the bunny wasn't allowed below a B average. She also had to rehearse with Mrs. Otterton every other day, which was the only thing she looked forward to each week.

Although they have only had one concert so far, Judy was starting to get a reputation as one of the top music students in the campus. Since Zootopia was the heart of the country, the school prided itself not only for its academic curriculum but also on its programs for both visual and performing arts – music, painting, dancing. The academy was a place where accomplished mammals could retire anywhere in the country and make a luxurious salary teaching overprivileged mammals. Mrs. Otterton seemed to relish the fact that she at long last had a student who wanted a 'challenge' and could tackle difficult sonatas (but it also meant that, on top of studying, practicing, and working, there was little time left for Judy to do anything else).

"Oh, believe me, future Miss Assistant Mayor of Zootopia" Judy assured, "you didn't miss much." As she proceeded to convey the evening's events. "Though," she concluded, "Izzy's happy, at least. Both of them seem to be smitten with each other."

Dawn cracked a smile. "That's g-great then! B-but what about prom? A-Are there news?"

"Well, nobody said anything to me about prom. Then again, nobody said 'anything' to me at all, either."

'Not to my face, at least.' Judy shivered as she remembered the bitterness in the voice of a certain elitist fox.

"Ack, t-that's right. Oh, I-I hope Priscilla g-gets asked to prom s-soon." The sheep mused. "C-can you think of anything more a-awful than wasting a semester on a mammal w-who wouldn't even ask you to prom?"

"Hmmmn, if you can recall...I happen to have a long list of worse things that had already happen - 'and that could still happen' - to us." the bunny almost enumerated them but decided not to. "Believe me, Dawn, 'going to prom' without a mammal in tow, didn't even make the cut."

"Judy! D-don't you want to g-go to prom?"

To other mammals on campus, it was a simple question. To Judy however, it wasn't. Did she want to go to prom? Uh-duh, who wouldn't? She used to tear pictures of dresses out of Teen Doe's prom issue when she was a little bunny after all. Little Miss Trier (a nickname her parents had given her), even with her tomboyish demeanor, still imagined that she was simply one gown away from a fairy-tale evening. But that wasn't going to happen now. Because in her prom fantasy, she not only had a gorgeous dress, but she also had the perfect 'gentle mammal' by her side.

Judy looked at the ewe, her partner in poverty. "If only it were that easy, Dawn." She murmured. If only a lot of things were that easy. But that wasn't their reality. In real life, she was a charity case who was going to be late for her barely paying job if she didn't start moving.

Afternoons, especially an hour or two after dismissals, The Big Donut (just outside the school gates) was always busy. Mammals from in and out of the campus needed some fix to (easily) cram whatever they should've been doing all weekend. Judy wasn't sure what to expect on her first few days back from break. But when she arrived, she found herself walking into a madhouse. She quickly tied her neon pink apron around her waist, pinned her nametag, and jumped behind the counter.

"Right on time, Judes." her coworker, Ben, a plumpy cheetah, looked like he could use a break (which for him was an entire box of donuts). "I'm being surrounded by 'not' your kind."

Benjamin Clawhauser used to be a contemporary dance student at Zootopia Academy but was forced to drop out after he was bullied for openly proclaiming his love for (the now Popstar) Gazelle during their prom – just a year after the singer graduated. With his species and overall built the snack loving and overly excited feline constantly teased Judy for being one of 'them' - which in this case, refers to the elitists currently in line - on her first week.

The bunny assured him that if she was truly anything like their 'kind', she would never join him for an impromptu 'Angel with Horns' concerts and would have never been on the same side of the counter as him. And that would've been a loss for both of them. Because while the bunny didn't really like having to serve most of the academy students, she enjoyed hanging out with Ben and the other 'local townies' she meets or worked with.

Not that they always have time for gossips and sing-a-longs. Judy spent the next half hour frying donuts, brewing coffee, and restocking boxes as she keeps up with the influx of customers. She'd just finished wiping the counters when more mammals entered the shop.

"Welcome to The Big Donut. How can I help you?" she asked the next customer, who had turned around to stare out the window.

When he turned back to Judy, she was horrified to discover it was none other than Nicholas Wilde – who seemed just as perplexed to see her. 'Molds and mildews! Why here of all places?' She internally whined.

"Car–e'hm Miss Hopps, you work here?" he cleared his throat and asked, making it sound like he'd just walked into one of his many guestrooms to find her changing the bedsheet and pillowcases.

The doe looked down at her apron and tugged on her neon orange visor. "Oh no, I actually thought this was a costume party. Silly me!" She stated matter-of-factly. "Though since I'm here, might as well serve the pastries and beverages. . ."

There wasn't even a hint of smile on the fox's face. "Right. Then, I guess I'll have a large, black coffee. Although, please don't hurt yourself, again." Now the corner of his mouth turned up slightly.

"Yeah...I'm 'one hundred percent' sure you'd enjoy that."

Nicholas furrowed his brow and stammered a bit. "What?! No, I-uh, I just meant. . .after last night, you probably. . .tsk, never mind."

Judy turned her back on him and prepared his coffee order as quickly as possible without scalding herself.

"Here you go." She rang up his order.

He handed her a crisp fifty-dollar bill and started to walk away from the counter.

"Wait, Nic-s-sir, you forgot your change," the doe called after him who only turned back around and smiled stiffly.

"Keep it."

"Sir, your change."

"No, really, it's okay."

"Take your change, sir!" Judy hissed a lot louder than normal as she held out his money in her paw.

"Judes!" Benjamin gasped, clearly shocked at his coworker's outburst.

Nicholas paused, then came back over and hesitantly took the money from the slightly trembling bunny.

"Oh...em...goodness, bunny!" the cheetah said as the vulpine walked out the door. "Don't take this the wrong way...but you're crazy, you know that? That was an instant twenty-seven-dollar tip!"

Judy wasn't crazy. She didn't want to fit in with whatever stereotype Nicholas Wilde (nor his fellow landowners at Snob Hills) have about her or the rest of the prey scholarship students at the academy. Despite what he may have thought, both her dignity and integrity were not for sale. And so, for the rest of the shift she tried her best to regain and maintain her professionalism until Ben gave her clearance for a short break when her phone rang.

"I hope you. . .enjoyed your first. . .shift back, Judy!" the doe could hear her friend jumped up and down the bed as she pressed the device to her ear. "And. . .guess what?"

'Oh Izzy, you have no idea.' The bunny thought as she took off her shoes and started to rub her sore feet from hours of mammalling the counter. "Hmn, does this have anything to do with a certain Mr. Slothmore?"

"Yes! Yes! He. . .invited us both. . . to their family house. . . in Tundratown. . .next weekend!" Priscilla's voice was two octaves higher than the sopranos in their church choir back in Bunny Burrows.

"Oh-uh, t-that's great news, Izzy!"

"So. . .you'll go, right?. . .You'll switch your. . . work schedule and. . .everything?"

Judy knew she had promised Priscilla that she would make an effort with Flash, and she couldn't back down now. "Um of course I'll go. Although I have to warn you – I don't do well in the cold."

"Then. . .you can drink. . .hot cocoa while. . . you relax or study. . .and, Flash did say. . . his family owns. . .a grand piano, so. . . you can spend. . . that weekend practicing."

Even if she hates to admit, it did sound fun to the bunny (especially the piano part). "Fine, fine. I'll ask Ben to move my shifts this week."

"Yay!. . .You're going to. . . love Flash. . .And honestly. . . Bea and Nick aren't. . . as bad as you. . . make them out to be."

The lapin's amethyst eyes went skyward with a groan. "T-They're going to b-be there, too?"

"Ah-huh. . .I know you don't. . .want to see Nick. . .'cause you got off. . .on the wrong foot. . .but it's just. . .first impressions."

"I swear Izzy, if I didn't know any better, I'd have shove my foot on that mammal's-"

"Judy. . .please!"

The doe thought of protesting further, but she could just picture her friend's face – so hopeful, so expectant – that she didn't want to disappoint her. The sloth had been beaming since Flash's arrival at the reception, and as her friend she didn't want to be the one to tarnish that glow.

"Okay, okay," Judy sighed, finally giving in. She was doing this for Priscilla, - who not only has done so much for her but is also - her best friend.

Plus, she did have every intention of spending the entire weekend locked in their shared room or chained to the piano (even without Mrs. Otterton's supervision).

Judy would only go for both Priscilla and Flash - not to get to know that fox nor the lynx better.

And if that was not the case, she probably would not enjoy every second of it.

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Chapter Text

06

long drive & beethoven

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The Tundratown Limousine Services was leaving for Polar Mountains around four o'clock that Friday. Judy had to work a couple hours after her morning classes to make up for the shifts that she was going to miss that weekend, and her replacement, Samantha, an otter, was late.

Which meant the bunny had to sprint the ten blocks from the The Big Donut to meet up with everybody. And when she rounded the corner and saw Priscilla, Flash, Nicholas, and Beatrix waiting for her, she realized her cheeks were flushed and she was nearly out of breath.

Beatrix tapped her watch impatiently and looked horrified when she spotted Judy. "You have got to be kidding," the lynx rolled her eyes.

Judy stopped dead in her tracks. Despite the fact that the feline and the vulpine in the group ignored her all week in class, she was 'positive' her coming with them couldn't have been a surprise. The doe approached them cautiously as both Priscilla and Flash looked happy to see her.

"You're. . .here!" Priscilla exclaimed. "Are you. . . okay?"

"Yeah." The lapin tried to control her ragged breathing. "Sam was a little late for her shift, so I had to run here."

"What in Mafdet is on your face?" Beatrix asked disgustedly.

"Huh?" Judy started wiping her sweaty face with a twitching nose. Nicholas was studying her, with the same weird expression he had the night they met, but with the corners of his lips slightly upturned and his eyes filled with mirth.

Priscilla giggled. "Oh Judy. . . I think you have. . . some blueberry. . ."

"What?" The doe continued to blindly wipe her face.

"Here let. . .me help." Priscilla took out her compact from her purse and Judy was astonished, not to mention a little embarrassed, to see a line of 'blueberry jam' on her red and blotchy cheekbone. She was a complete mess as the sloth gently wiped her face with a tissue and did her best to improve matters.

The fox let out a little laugh - Judy was sure he was loving this moment, and she enjoyed his presence even less because of it. He went over to the limousine and opened the door. "After you..." He gestured with his paw. And the bunny could have sworn she heard the word 'Fluff' leaving from his mouth but decided to ignore it as she maneuvered into the farthest window seat at the back and took out her economics notebook instead.

Priscilla and Flash sat near the front with their back against the driver seat, while Beatrix cozied up to Nicholas in the middle seats facing the door. Judy was hoping she could get through her assignments during the entire drive. And since Beatrix spent the entire time between whispering disparaging comments about most mammals at the academy and shamelessly flirting with a certain fox, the bunny was pretty much left alone. Every once in a while, both sloths tried to bring her into the conversation, and she would politely answer their questions. Nicholas kept glancing at her and her notebook as though she needed help with her assignment to which she responded by shifting it out of his view.

Just as the car begun to slowly twist and turn through the snowy road, Judy finished most of her homework and couldn't help but gaze in awe as they passed a row of huge log cabins and grand winter lodges. Cold and dim light encapsulated the car making her shiver and feel so helpless - a feeling that she had gotten used to entire stay in the city.

The Slothmore's Tundratown 'rest house' was a large, three-story birch structure with panoramic picture windows overlooking the entire district. Then by a block or so they could see the ski park from afar - with massive and deathly looking ski trails. There was no way Judy was even thinking of attempting to ski or frolic near the snow this weekend. She had embarrassed herself enough already.

After the quintet grabbed their bags from the car, Flash gave them the grand tour of the house. But there was only one room Judy was at all interested in: the living room which contained a beautiful Steinway grand piano. With such a beauty, any hesitation and remorse that the bunny had about the weekend quickly went away. Let everyone do what they wish - she would have music.

The sloth continued to guide them upstairs. The family room and the two guest rooms (Nicholas in one, and Priscilla and Judy in the other) were on the next floor, with his room and Beatrix's on the third floor sandwiching the master suite. The group disperse as the lynx excused herself to freshen up while the others went downstairs to relax - that is, except for Judy who started unpacking with way more time than was necessary. She was examining the list of term papers she wanted to have a head start on when there was a knock at the door.

"Hi. . .Judy," Flash stuck his head in. "I'm so glad. . .you decided to come. . .and spend your. . .weekend with us." His smile was very welcoming. "Supper's almost ready. . .and I was hoping. . .that you'd come down. . .and join us."

The bunny looked at the nightstand clock and realized how much she was dawdling. "Oh, rotten rutabagas! I made y'all wait again, didn't I? I'm ter'bly sorry, Flash!" Her country accent slipping for a brief moment.

He waved his paw good naturedly. "It's alright. . .I understand. . .I was a little. . .beat myself." Judy could only nod as she remembers how long the drive was and how that could make any mammal tired - not to mention starving. As they headed downstairs, the sloth looked up at her. "I also heard. . .that you're quite an. . .accomplished pianist. . .do you think. . .you could play. . .for us tonight?"

"Uh-well, I don't know..."

They arrived in the living room where Beatrix, Nicholas, and Priscilla were sitting on the couch. The feline nestled herself well into the vulpine's side, while the other folivoran seemed oblivious to their flirtation. Judy went over to the piano and started running her paw pads over the keys.

Some mammals dreamed of owning jewelries or sports cars. Meanwhile, Judy had always dreamed of one day having a Steinway of her own. Back home they only had a standard upright that was always in desperate of tuning. When she played on that piano, it was like trying to use colored pencils to paint the Meowna Lisa. With a Steinway, it was as though she had all the materials that Lionardo da Vinci used back then. The rest was up to her. A challenge on an even playing field that even if she had money or not wouldn't matter (it was all about talent).

"Who plays?" the bunny asked, almost to herself.

"My stepmom used. . .to take lessons," Flash said to which she just let out a frustrated sigh as it killed her to see such beautiful instruments not put to use more than a mere decoration. "Anyway," he continued, "Gerald has made. . .his famous soup du jour. . .with quesadilla. . . and arctic spritz. . .you must be starving."

Judy couldn't look away from the shining ivory keys and just absentmindedly nodded.

"Who's Gerald?"

"He oversees this. . .house when we're away. . .and he's one of. . .the finest cooks. . .in all Zootopia."

A slightly older pig entered from the kitchen and started putting food down on the adjacent dining room table. Judy wasn't particularly surprised that the Slothmores' parents would know better than leave their cubs unattended for the weekend. And she was somewhat grateful to have someone in the house she could sort of relate to.

"Everything should be 'here' in just a few more minutes," Gerald announced before retiring back to the kitchen.

Flash tapped on the piano. "Judy. . .why don't you. . .play something for us. . . before we eat?" He pulled out a slightly higher bench for the doe. "It would be. . .nice to have some. . .music in the house."

"Oh. . .yes! She's really. . .amazing!" Priscilla encouraged her friend.

Judy hesitated - she was hungry to play, to do the one thing she always felt comfortable doing, to feel alive and limitless. She sat down and kept running her pads lightly over the keys. She tried out a few chords and they rang gloriously all throughout the large room. And before she could stop herself, she erupted into the second part of Beethooven's Piano Sonata no.29. Her paws began flying gracefully but with urgency as the music unspooled from within her. She instantly eased up from the tension of the drive, letting all her frustrations at the keys. For whole three minutes, she was alone - it was just her, the Steinway, and the music. She swayed back and forth on the bench as she tried to keep with the challenge Beethooven had laid down. At the end of the Scherzo: Assai Vivace, she gently placed her paws in her lap before finishing with a contented sigh. Her cheeks may be a little flushed from the adrenaline of performing, but her mind was blessedly clear.

"Bravo!" Priscilla cheered.

"That was...incredible!" Flash's eyes were wider than it had already been. He kept looking from the bunny to the piano.

"That was...loud," A bored looking Beatrix replied from the couch.

Flash came over and placed his paw on the doe's shoulder. "Judy. . .I don't think our. . .piano could stand to be. . .played by anyone else. . .even after that short. . .performance."

Beatrix got up from the couch. "Ugh, is it time for dinner, or do we have to listen to more 'pounding'? I'm already nursing a headache from the drive as it is."

Nicholas chuckled. "Guess Beethooven hit bullseye in naming it 'Hammerklavier' then."

"You knew that was Beethooven?" To say Judy was surprised was an understatement - not only did he pronounced the musician's name with an accent but was also able to identify the piece.

The fox merely shrugged. "I happen to pay attention in music class, 'sweetheart'."

"Oh. . .please," Flash began to say, "it's. . .'more' like-"

Nicholas gave the sloth a look which made it clear he didn't want him to continue as he followed the lynx to the table.

Beatrix pulled a chair and sat down. "I 'guess' now we know that all it takes for some mammal to get a 'scholarship' at the academy is to have the ability to make a lot of noise."

Priscilla came up to the bunny and whispered, "Don't listen. . .to her. . .she's just jealous. . .I don't think she. . .likes the way Nick. . .was 'looking' at you."

"You mean she wants to be looked at with 'absolute' contempt too?" Judy whispered back.

"Judy. . .that's bad!" the sloth playfully reprimanded her.

"What? I'm just stating facts of the case, and I-" the bunny tried to counter before dissolving into fits of giggles with her friend until she sensed a peeping todd from the corner of her eye. Confused by the sudden (albeit unwanted) 'attention' he's giving her, Judy led Priscilla towards the dining table and tried her best to ignore the glare as well as the passive aggressive comments from the feline across the table. As they began to dig into Gerald's 'scrumptious' meal, Flash also turned his focus towards the bunny.

"Are you sure. . . we can't convince you. . .to join us tomorrow?" he asked her. "I'm sure Nick. . .wouldn't mind giving. . . you some pointers. . .right buddy?"

"Yeah sure, 'one hundred percent'." Nicholas, whose gaze was now back on the food, said with sarcasm oozing from his voice.

"Uh-yeah thanks. But I have this thing against bodily harm."

Both sloths laughed.

"Oh. . .Judy"

"I'm sure. . .you'd be fine."

"I appreciate your confidence in me, guys. Unfortunately, I'm more comfortable at a piano than in the snow."

"We. . .completely. . .understand."

"Yes. . .I'll make sure Gerald will. . .take good care of you. . .so make yourself. . .at home."

Judy ignored Beatrix's snort. Flash was so genuinely kind, and Priscilla had such a positive attitude that she wished more mammals were like 'them'. Zootopia would be a better place with more Flash Slothmores and Priscilla Tripletoes than Beatrix Swifts...or even Nicholas Wildes.

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Chapter Text

07

credit card & difficulties

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A 'recharged' Judy found everybody, except for Beatrix, downstairs at the kitchen table the next morning, helping themselves to a mouthwatering spread that must have taken Gerald the same hours as her mother when she prepares their family breakfast (for 'fourteen' mammals) back home.

"Good morning. . .Judy," Flash greeted her. "How did. . . you sleep?"

"Very well, Flash, thank you!" The bunny fixed herself a bowl of oatmeal with strawberries and graciously accepted a cup of tea from a beaming Priscilla.

"So, Judy. . .what are you. . .planning to do. . .today?" the female sloth asked as her friend dug in.

"Hmn, I don't know yet -" Judy chewed, before answering. "- though, I've been meaning to ask, is there a bookstore in town?" she took a generous sip of tea and hummed, "I need to work on my sociology paper, but I forgot to pick up a copy of the assigned book. And I thought I'd stroll around town while you guys leave for the ski park" Quickly finishing the rest of her meal she stood up and was about to bring the empty dishes to the sink only to be intercepted by the chef who shook his head (both in amusement and disbelief).

Although, more surprisingly, a certain fox also got up after her. "Don't be silly Car-e'hm, there's another car, I'll drive you."

"Oh no, it's okay. I can-" Judy was almost near the closet to grab her coat but was ignored by Nicholas who opened the adjacent compartment and pulled out his own. "B-but I-I, uh, don't you have some skiing to do?"

"The slopes aren't going anywhere," Nicholas replied as he opened up the front door for the both of them. It was bright out from the sun glistening off the snow, but a shiver still ran through Judy as she unmistakably heard the term 'Fluff' from the vulpine's mouth again. She waited for him to explain himself further, but they just walked over to the car in silence, the only noise coming from the fresh snow crunching under their feet. The todd went over to the passenger side and opened the door while the doe stopped in her tracks.

"Um, I thought you said 'you' were driving."

Nicholas looked perplexed. "I am - I was just opening the door for you."

"Oh-uh thanks." Judy felt stupid that such a simple and chivalrous gesture could set off her defenses.

They got into the car without saying another word and began to listen to the ski report on the radio on the short drive unto the main street.

The fox turned down the volume. "Are you sure we can't persuade your 'cute' tail to join us? It really is fun."

"First of all, don't call me cute." Judy huffed in annoyance. "And I don't think anybody would consider a visit to the emergency room 'fun', so thanks but no." She grumbled then looked out at the snow-covered buildings so as to refrain from snapping at her 'companion' even further.

Nicholas let out a small laugh. "Okay, that seems fair enough. But I can't help but 'wonder' why you'd come all this way to Tundratown - for a weekend, might I add - if you have no intention of skiing."

The bunny merely shrugged. "For Izzy."

"Ah... for the dress?"

"Yes! Well, no, I mean - it's...more than that. I-I-." Judy could feel the fox's intense gaze on her, and she silently prayed to Serendipity that he doesn't notice the rush of color in her cheeks and ears. "Izzy... is everything to me. T-There isn't 'anything' I wouldn't do for her...so coming along for a weekend is the very least I could do."

The todd was silent for a few moments. "But haven't you only known each other for a semester?"

"Hmn-hmn, but I-I-, w-we...have been through so much..." she paused her nose twitching. "...a-and I don't think I could have 'survived' here without her." her voice was quiet, barely a whisper. "Most mammals never 'realize' what a luxury kindness could also be."

Judy didn't know why she felt the need to confess that to Nicholas Wilde of all mammals. Perhaps it was her way to talk Priscilla up to Flash's good friend. Or maybe she was tired of mammals (especially predators) only seeing her one way. With a sniff, she turned fully toward the window as they slow down to find somewhere to park, hoping the fox wouldn't press further. When they got off, they were greeted by boutiques, organic food stores, coffee shops, restaurants, and, fortunately, a small bookstore.

"Car-e'hm, uh-come this way 'madam'," Nicholas said, leading her to the social sciences shelf. "A friend of mine needed a collection of Koala Marx's books last year." He scanned the shelf and found the authors: Lhasapoo and Coonway. "Is this it? 'Unequal Kithoods: Class, Species, and Family Life'?"

The todd hummed in response to the bunny (who thought she saw a flicker of 'approval' in his eyes) nodding curtly. And after selecting a more pristine copy of the book, his tail gave a satisfied wag as he headed to the register, where he pulled a 'black card' out from his wallet.

"And what do you think you're doing?"

Nicholas didn't get it. "Hmn? Oh, do you need to get something else?"

Judy shook her head. "Uh no. I don't understand 'why' you have your credit card out - you're not paying for my book." She began to move towards the cashier line where a fox stood frozen gaping at her.

"Alright, I'll bite. . .what's your problem?" he demanded.

The doe glanced back at him. "Excuse me?" she replied coldly.

"You seem to have a problem not only with me, but most everybody else at the academy for that matter."

Her mouth dropped open. "I 'am' the one who has a problem? Me? Wow, you truly have a 'different' sense of humor."

"Rabbit, I'm offering to buy your book and instead of just saying 'thank you', you're insulting me." With a slight edge in his voice. "Why don't you let 'me' pay for it? It's not really that big of a deal to me."

Judy, now infuriated, grabbed the book out of his paws. "Oh, but it's a really big deal to me!"

Nicholas smugly crossed his arms. "There is really no reason to be so difficult about this."

"Difficult? I'm buying something for myself. For my class. I don't need to take out a loan from 'some fox' just to buy a paperback."

"I don't think 'that' is what this is about."

"Oh, really?" Nicholas had only known her for a few days, they 'barely' had a proper conversation, and here he thought he has figured her out. "Well, at least I don't have to 'hide' behind my money. I've earned everything I have."

"You don't 'know' anything about me, Miss Hopps."

The lapin tried to keep her voice down. "And you think you know 'everything' about me? Tell me, Mr. Wilde, have 'you' ever had a real job? Have you ever had to do most chores around your house - oh, I'm sorry, mansions?" He hesitated and looked down at the floor. "Yeah, I didn't think so. When I was growing up, I have 'always' wished that my family was rich. Rich enough so we didn't have to save up to buy things. Rich enough so it wouldn't be such a struggle for my parents to pay for my or any of my siblings' tuitions. Guess what? We're not. Then as 'luck' would have it I got a scholarship grant - finally I can continue my music lessons without them having to suffer because of it. But when I came to Zootopia, I was 'treated' nothing more like dirt by the most vile and self-important mammals I've ever met just because I was some 'prey' from the countryside. And you know what? I'm grateful that I was born and raised in Bunny Burrows. Where I haven't had everything handed to me...because having to work for things make someone a 'better' mammal."

Nicholas clenched his jaw. "Well, you certainly are a harsh critic, huh? Did you maybe even try to get to know 'other' mammals before you began judging them?"

"When?" Judy's voice cracked unexpectedly. "When there were 'hormone suppressant' pills shoved into my mailbox? Or when I had to scrub off the 'Preys Not Wanted' that was scribbled all over my door? How about when a real estate heiress poured scalding-hot soup on my dress only to be 'mocked' by a holier-than-thou fox? Have you ever even had a fruit shake thrown in your face, huh? Because I have...for two weeks - and not just 'twice' a day!" The todd looked somewhere between appalled and embarrassed now. He had no idea what preys like her have been and are still going through. Yet here he was, an elite predator, telling her that she was misjudging them. So, the doe went on. "So please, tell me, at what point between all those bullying and humiliation during my 'entire' stay in Zootopia was I supposed to get to know any mammals better?"

"Judy. . .I-I didn't kno-"

"Of course you didn't - that's exactly my point!"

The doe walked up to the counter and tried not to feel more self-conscious when the cashier, an arctic wolf, had to flatten the 'wrinkled' dollar bills she got from The Big Donut tip jar in order to pay. Once the purchase was complete, she walked back to the car without even looking at Nicholas - though she could tell that he was trying his best to keep up with her by the sound of frantic paw-steps on the snow.

Judy grabbed the handle before he could open the door for her again.

"Oh, and in case I haven't made myself clear back there," she all but proclaimed once the fox had finally caught up, "I have absolutely no interest in 'you' nor your 'money'."

There was a strangled whine as Nicholas got in the car and closed his door shut. They drove back in silence with the bunny running back up to the guest room she shares with Priscilla as soon as they reached the house. She didn't relax until her friend hugged her goodbye then joined the rest of the predators for their ski plans. Yet despite her rather rocky morning, she ended up having a good day at the Slothmores' rest house. She was able to catch up on all her homework, even managed to read ahead in a couple classes, then willingly gave Gerald a mini concert on the Steinway.

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Chapter Text

08

awkward dinners & yoga

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The bunny was on her third cup of Gerald's amazing hot chocolate when the predator group returned from their afternoon on the slopes - led by Beatrix who entered with a distracted looking Nicholas (who seemed to tense up when he saw Judy and the sociology book she was reading), giggling and talking his ear off. The two sloths entered a few moments after, Flash brushing off the snow from his jacket and helping Priscilla steady as she removed her boots. Both their cheeks bright red... either from the cold or from something else, the doe wasn't sure.

"Oh, there you. . .are Judy. . .how was your day?" Priscilla asked the second she spotted her friend.

"It was good, Izzy." she replied. "Thanks so much for having me again, Flash."

"Anytime!" the folivoran waited until everybody else was upstairs before asking the lapin his next question. "Um Judy. . . would you be okay. . .if I took Izzy. . . out to dinner tonight? . . .I know that Bea. . . can be, well. . . not the most. . .tolerable but you'd. . . have Nick here. . . to protect you."

Judy tried not to choke on her hot chocolate. It was clear that Flash, just like Priscilla, tend to see the good in mammals. And even though she knew he meant every word he was saying, yet at the same time had no idea what he was actually talking about. But despite her growing displeasure with the fox and her extreme desire to avoid the lynx, the bunny wanted her best friend to be happy. 'And sometimes friends have to suffer for their friends' happiness' she thought.

"Of course, Flash," the doe replied. "You mammals just enjoy yourselves!" She went upstairs and helped the female sloth, who was ecstatic to finally be going on a real date with Flash, prepare for her undoubtedly wonderful evening to be.

Her own dinner, however, was even more awkward than Judy could have ever imagined. She mostly kept to herself, only speaking to compliment Gerald or to offer help, which the swine graciously refused. If she was being honest, it felt like she was third wheeling (or even a chaperoning) another date. Beatrix kept flirting with Nicholas, reaching across the table to touch his paw at any chance she could get. The todd, for his part, seemed as bored as ever, especially when the lynx brought up prom. Which she did ... twenty-four times (the bunny counted).

"There are so many responsibilities being head of the prom committee," the feline stated. (Okay, make them twenty-five times.)

Nicholas pushed away his plate with a grunt. "Do you think it would be possible to have an evening that doesn't 'revolve' around talking about prom or anything related to that?"

Beatrix opened her mouth but paused. "Hmn. You're right..." She smiled sweetly at the vulpine. "Let's get a nice bottle of champagne and start a fire."

He shook his head. "I should get some reading done tonight."

"Ugh, really Nicky, reading? On a Saturday night?"

Judy tried not to laugh as she got up and cleared her plate. "Let me 'help' you with the dishes, Gerald, please." the doe said once she was out of their earshot and reached the kitchen. "Don't make me go back out 'there', I beg you." she nodded toward the dining room.

"Oh, sweet bunny, you have no idea how long I've had to put up with Miss Swift every time they stay here." The swine shook his head. "Why do you think I 'don't' use the dishwasher?" He gestured toward the stainless-steel industrial dishwasher to his right as he filled up the sink to manually do the dishes.

With a wink and a thumbs up from the chef, Judy was sent back to the living room where Beatrix was mindlessly flipping through the channels on the large flat screen television against the wall while Nicholas was busy on his laptop. The sighing lapin curled up on the chaise longue and tried to read. Although, as much as she enjoyed her recently purchased book, the Beatrix Swift Show was much 'more' entertaining.

The lynx leaned over to watch the fox type. "Tell Frubellina I say hello."

"Already did - want me to tell her again?" Nicholas didn't even look up from the screen as his paw pads continue to tap on the keyboard.

Giggling, Beatrix placed her paw on his shoulder then bit her lip. "I just think it is so 'sweet' of you to check up on her as much as you do. It's a shame she won't be joining us this semester."

The bunny had to admit that she was slightly curious about this other mammal that the feline was referring to. Maybe Nicholas has a girlfriend? (Though she doubts that was the case considering the lynx hasn't thrown a fit yet.) Is it perhaps his sister? Or maybe his mother?

'Dumb bunny! So, what if that's the case? What is it to you, anyway?' Judy shook her head as she silently chastised herself, an action Nicholas noticed but didn't comment on as he kept on typing.

"Hmmmn." The feline yawned exaggeratedly. "What an amazing day on the slopes." She got up and began stretching in front of the fox. She took a deep breath as she reached her arms up to the ceiling, a motion that exposed her midriff conveniently at his eye level. She continued stretching, and even going as far as bending over to the side and letting out a loud sigh.

Nicholas closed his laptop, much to Beatrix's delight. But then he went over to the couch beside Judy and picked up his book, not giving his fellow predator a second glance.

The lynx slouched down on the couch beside the todd who was entrenched in his book. "Ooh yes," she cooed. "What a lovely evening. I do think it is the 'perfect' time to read." She purred and went over to the bookshelf to select a random book. She pretended to be interested in The Great Catsby. But after a few minutes, she huffed and threw the book down.

"Judy," Beatrix called out. The bunny was in such shock that she was addressing her directly that she didn't respond right away. "Judy, do you want me to teach you some yoga moves?"

Judy didn't know how to react. Her instincts 'automatically' assumed that the feline was setting her up for something. The fox on the other hand set down his book and started studying the lapin as Beatrix began doing very complicated poses in front of them, obviously trying to impress him.

"Not your thing too, huh?" Nicholas asked the doe who plainly shrugged.

Beatrix, obviously satisfied that she had 'outshined' the prey, sat down on the floor with her legs crossed. "Yoga isn't for everybody. It's a challenge that I physically, as well as intellectually, bear every day." Judy had to bite the inside of her cheeks to stop from laughing. "And I have to admit, because of that, I'm not nearly the perfect companion or sibling for most mammals-" the lynx reached over and touched the fox on his knee. "- but I'm open to trying, you know?"

"You've mentioned 'earlier' that you, uh, have siblings. If you don't mind my asking, how many are they...Judy?" the vulpine asked her again.

The lapin's nose twitched uncontrollably, like it sensed a threat (literally and figuratively) slyly marching towards her. 'Is he asking so he could point out how bunnies are good at multiplying?'

"Uh-um, e-eleven - six brothers and five sisters."

"Oh wow! You must miss all of 'them' since they're so far away." He looked genuinely interested in Judy's family life that she had almost forgotten about their 'little' dispute that morning- well, almost.

Though before Judy could come up with an answer, the feline kept prodding him on - talking about every topic she could possibly think of that would warrant his attention. And yet Nicholas only kept his eyes on Judy, like he was either trying his hardest to actually figure her out or just make her more uncomfortable.

"-not that you have any faults, Nicky," Beatrix continued, the doe couldn't tell whether she was being serious about that or not.

The vulpine finally turned his attention away for a second to look at the lynx. "Nobody's perfect."

Judy let out a laugh.

Nicholas turned back at her, this time with a challenging gaze. "Does 'some bunny' thinks she's perfect?"

"Ha-ha-ho! No... not at all." the bunny asserted. "Far from it, actually. I'm just interested in hearing what 'you' think your faults are." she found herself enjoying the conversation.

"Hmn-well." He paused. "Everybody has them, and I'm certainly not an exception. I'm not the most forgiving mammal. I have a dry sense of humor. And I'm sure I would also be bad at yoga." He raised an eyebrow at Judy. "Would you care to 'hop' in?"

The lapin did her best to fight back a sneer at his pun attempt. "Gee, I don't know." She was planning to be polite but thought the better of it. "I haven't known you that long to throw a 'wild' guess in your face."

"Please...I'm sure you have at least something to say on the subject, right Cottontail?"

Judy didn't need to be asked twice. "I guess the fact that you seem to hate every prey mammal and everything about their upbringing could be considered as your greatest weakness, Slick...that is, if we could even disregard your hubris."

"And I guess yours is the ability to misunderstand predators and make hasty generalizations about them...though we could still add in naivety if you'd like?"

Beatrix looked back and forth at the two before jumping to her feet and turning the television back on. She sat back down next to Nicholas - like she was some kind of wall between him and Judy - then started droning on and on about the perfect movie to watch. Neither the fox nor the bunny expressed any more of their opinions after that, but the lynx didn't seem to notice or care. As long as they weren't on each other's throat (figuratively and almost literally), she was happy. The only time small chatter began again was when Flash and Priscilla returned from their dinner, halfway through the movie. Though as soon as the credits started rolling everyone was already itching to go up their respective rooms and rest.

Priscilla did seem giddier after tonight, but not as euphoric as Judy was the next day, when she was mostly ignored the entire way home - the sloths were in their own little bubble laughing and enjoying themselves...while the feline continued relentlessly dropping the P-word (thirty-two times now) to the vulpine, who was just mostly staring out the window all throughout the drive.

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Chapter Text

09

in crowds & townies

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Since Judy had switched her shift at work for the ski trip, Benjamin required her to come that Sunday night which was not much of a big deal (but if she was being honest, she preferred Sunday afternoons since it was always busy, so the time just flew...and the staff got more tips).

"What are you doing here?" the bunny asked her friend, Dawn Bellwether, when she arrived.

The ewe looked exhausted. "Benjamin c-called in sick, and Samantha h-had a family e-emergency, so I'm doing d-double duty today."

"Oh cripes. Well-" the doe grabbed her apron. "-if it's quiet, you can probably head out early." She started wiping down the counter and cleaning up the pastry racks. There were only a few customers in the seating area, but none of them she recognized. She practically had the orders of her afternoon shift regulars memorized so at least tonight would be a nice change of pace for her.

"Judith?" the bunny looked up to find Gareth staring at her.

"Oh, Gareth. I mean - Welcome to The Big Donut, sir! What can I get for you?" Judy walked over to the counter and tried to look busy so she wouldn't be stuck in a conversation with him.

"I didn't know you also worked on Sunday nights."

"I-uh, had to trade shifts."

"A-ha! I figured there had to be a reason. You seem to be a mammal with a disciplined schedule, which I greatly admire. How was your weekend?"

"T'was good...yours?"

The ram studied the blackboard menu for a few moments. "Very pleasant. Thank you for asking."

"Uh-no problem. C-can I get you something?"

Gareth placed his order after what seemed like an hour's deliberation. As the doe steamed the milk for his latte, she couldn't help but feel her every move was being followed. She wasn't the kind of doe that thought every buck was checking her out, but Gareth's gaze seemed to linger over her.

"Here you go, sir." Judy said as she handed him his order, hoping there was enough finality in her tone to end the conversation.

"Wonderful. Thank you, Judith." The bunny only smiled and began to wipe down the coffee machine (even though it was already clean) and the ram. eventually got the hint and left.

"Hey Bellwether," said one of the few remaining customers from a nearby table, "Dunno how ya deal with 'em 'in-crowds'."

"I-If I remember c-correctly," The ewe replied, "you're o-once part of t-them, Weselton." The lapin hadn't noticed this mammal before, which was surprising since there weren't many weasels out and about the campus area.

The weasel sniggered. "It's Weaselton - and I got kicked out...surely ya don't count that against me."

Dawn motioned toward her friend. "C-Careful what you s-say - Judy h-here is also p-part of the i-in-crowd...somehow at l-least"

'Weaselton' got up from his seat and approached the counter. "Really? Why she workin 'here' then?"

"Because like Dawn here, I'm also a scholarship student." the doe quipped. "I just happened to be friends with the right mammals."

The dog chuckled and extended his hand. "Well, whaddya know? Former scholarship boy and two scholarship gals."

The grinning bunny shook his hand. "Nice to meet you, I'm Judy Hopps."

"Ah, name's Weaselton, Duke Weaselton. Mammals at Zoo-A thought I belong from 'em 'royal' families. . .I wish."

"Hmn, a predator scholarship student - so, you're like, a walking cosmic fluke?"

Duke had an impish kind of smile. "Ain't that the truth. I'm one rare breed."

"Weaselton h-here is the rarest of r-rare," Dawn explained to the lapin. "He's f-from Happy Town but s-somehow made it t-through the academy's g-gates."

"No, way!" Judy looked at him, muzzle gaping wide. "They'd let a 'townie' inside the campus?"

"I know right? Oddly enough, sun didn't shine on Nocturnal District that day - t'was the strangest thing."

The ewe gave him a pointed look. "You're m-making it sound like us c-charity cases are b-bringing the apocalypse to Zootopia."

"And by apocalypse, you mean our lack of trust-funds?"

"Woah Judy...ya really were a part of 'em crowds. Only those around 'em would know what that 'word' means."

"O-Or in your c-case Duke - your l-lack thereof." Dawn interjected with an unapologetic snort.

A hint of red colored the weasel's face, but he only shrugged. "Ya caught me. Easiest way to kick a pelt out the academy..."

"Wait what? You really got 'kicked' out?"

Duke outwardly grimaced. "Yeah... guess there's only so much charity folks like 'em able to give-"

"More like scholarship students they can tolerate."

"Ah 'see we've a quick study here, Dawn." He winked at the bunny as the ewe playfully shakes her head.

Judy could feel her pulse quicken that she didn't even notice when the bell signaled the front door opening. Both Duke and Dawn looked over to see who it was. Once they did, the weasel suddenly tensed up, his entire demeanor changing. The doe turned around to see none other than Nicholas Wilde staring at them with a look of utter contempt on his face.

The dog abruptly left the counter and returned to his seat as the todd's eyes followed him the entire time with his jaw clenched tightly. The ewe on the other hand, grabbed the mop and turned away to clean, leaving her friend to handle the situation.

"Welcome to The Big Donut, sir. Can I get you something?" Judy asked proverbially.

Nicholas jerked back to life. For an instant he looked at her as if she had somehow betrayed him. He shook his head, and his stoic facade returned to his face. "Yes, car-e'hm, I-" His eyes darted back to Duke again. "-I-I guess I'll have, ah, large decaf, please." It was as if there was something about the former scholarship student that had rattled him which made the bunny like the weasel a tad bit more.

Judy handed the todd his coffee and rang him up. Before he left, he hesitated for a moment. "How late are you going to clock out tonight?"

The lapin shrugged. "It depends...why?"

The vulpine began to fuss with the lid of his drink. "It's not really safe for you to be walking back to your dorm late at night, Judy."

"I'll be fine, Nic-sir." she found herself assuring him, which was a complete 360° of their screaming match yesterday. "Besides, the only harm I could get is my usual torture at the hands of my fellow student body, but you already knew that didn't you?"

With a clenched jaw, Nicholas could only nod and walked out, staring straight ahead as he passed by Duke.

As soon as the door swung shut, the dog turned to Judy and said, "Talk about 'awkward', eh?"

"I take it you know Nicholas Wilde from your academy days?"

He sighed. "I did, yup. Ya could even say that we're once tight." Then added. "Ya seem to be 'friends' with him thou-"

Judy groaned. "Hardly. I've known him for a week, and I already find him to be the most condescending, egotistical, and hateful mammal on the planet."

Duke cackled. "Hah! So, ya do know him well."

"You got me there."

The dog approached the counter again. "Friendly advice missy...ya really need to start bein' more careful about who ya seen hanging 'round with."

"Are you referring to Nicholas or yourself?" The bunny smirked at him.

"Eh, depends on who ya ask."

"Pffft...guess since there isn't a way for the esteemed mammals of the academy to despise a prey like me even further, I shall hang out with whoever I choose."

A playful whistle left the weasel's muzzle. "Then, scholarship gal, mind givin' the time o'day to a disgraced former scholarship lad like m'self?"

"It depends...what do you have in mind?"

"Lunch would be a nice start." And the two mammals did meet up during Judy's free period that Wednesday for lunch. Duke took her to a place at the junction of Sahara Square and Savanna Central, called The Dunes - a part of the city the bunny hasn't been before. Upon entering a female koala behind the counter immediately greeted them.

"Look who it is...the Duke of Happy Town-" she playfully curtsied. "-here for the lunch hour special?"

"Didn't know ya' workin' today." the weasel leaned over the counter and gave her a kiss on the cheek. "Two lunch hour special's great, Kat. Judy, meet Katee Moon. Katee this is Judy Hopps" He motioned towards both does who smiled at each other. "Am saving her from 'em elitists over at Zoo-A." He looked over his shoulder and then said in an exaggerated whisper, "She's a prey scholarship student." The lapin couldn't help but laugh since she knew that nobody in this place would even care and she was right.

"I'll pretend I understand what that means," Katee winked at Judy as she led the pair to a booth near a window. Before leaving them, however, she waved away the wallet that Duke had just pulled out of his pocket. "Y'know your money isn't good here Duke...just don't forget to swing by once in a while."

"Aww, ya angel. Give m'best to ol' Buster." He smiled at the koala as she placed their meal on the table. "See, Judy, ya need to start findin' the right kinda' mammals." He motioned down at the free chopped salad and lemonade. "I've known Katee since elementary and there's a group of us that've been close friends for ages." He chewed for a bit. "Don't remember life before 'em, ya know? Am sure ya have people like that back home. T'was hard for me not to be with 'em, and t'was only couple of blocks away - Can't imagine whaddit' must be like for country mammals like ya." Judy sighed and told him more about her life back in Bunny Burrow, how she got in Zootopia Academy, and the moved to the city.

"Still can't believe ya agreed'ta be seen with me in public," Duke said afterwards as he finished his meal. "'Em in-crowd police have probably sent out a search party."

"Not likely...they're probably locking the gates as we speak."

"Still-" the dog grinned at her "-ya're a brave one."

"Not braver than someone who still has his head high and wits about him even though he was treated horribly."

Duke played with the wrapper of his straw. "Eh, things weren't that bad for me back at Zoo-A, if ya can imagine that."

"Wait really?"

"Dunno if ya'd believe it or not but I was, in fact, friends with some of 'em elites."

"What? T-That's...insane." Judy was surprised. "I mean, I have Izzy, and Dinah I guess - but that's it. Izzy keeps telling me to go out more, but every time I do, the evening just ends more badly than good."

"Hah! Story of m'life!" The weasel chuckled, then his demeanor changed. "Hey, Judy..."

"Yeah?"

He hesitated. "I-, t-there's somethin' I wantcha to know, and I wantcha to hear it from me."

"Uh-okay..." the doe leaned in.

"It's about why I got kicked out."

"Duke, you don't need to tell-"

"But I haf'ta... since it involved Nick Wilde."

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Chapter Text

10

old friends & expulsion

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It hadn't occurred to Judy that she was holding her breath until Duke cleared his throat and sat comfortably before telling his story.

"M'self started out as a soph'more 'bout a year and a half ago. Met and clicked with lot'sa mammals, and d'fact that I was nothin, but a pred scholar or a townie, as Zoo-A goers call us, wasn't big a deal. O'course, bein' born and raised a city dog, I knew a lot 'bout most of the students and some of 'em faculty, like their families and their rep. And outta everyone, I was lookin forward'ta meeting d'infamous Nicholas Wilde - and whaddya know? Hit it off really well with that one...we became best buddies from d'moment we got paired over a chem experiment."

"Nicky took me under his wing. T'was only two or three months give or take, and d'fox brought me to Tundratown to meet his whole family - fell in love with 'em. His godfather is this incredible mammal, 'tis why I don't like sayin an'thing nasty about 'em folks, and 'cause his old todd who's this famous philanthropist got mugged ages ago. T'was even arranged for m'self'ta have a part time job d'same year at Mr. Wilde's tailoring shop. That'd have set me up - not just in earning cash y'know, but to get experience that'd have been right on par in 'em transcripts for business degrees I planned to get. Things were smooth sailin' for a Happy Town dog like m'self."

"Guess 'ol Nicky couldn't take that. He loved havin' me under his wing y'know, and havin' some sorta control over me. Even dragged m'tail to get back at 'em group of preys he'd a petty squabble with when he was a young'in. Thank Karma for his fam's connections 'cause we was bailed out d'same night - 'em poor scouts, on the other paw, well, last I heard they'all still behind 'em bars."

"After that night, me and Nick Wilde drifted apart. He didn't like seein' me grow by m'self, or makin stuff happen for m'well-bein' without his influence. Foxy boy became increasingly competitive even with lil' ol' me. And when he thought he might lose everythin'ta me, devil stabbed me in d'back. B'fore I knew what was happenin', I was bein' escorted off campus without 'em records, credentials, and shot at m'future."

"Nicholas got you kicked out?!" The bunny gasped; disbelief written in her muzzle from what she just heard.

With color draining from his face, the weasel nodded.

"O-oh why that-that, scheming, g-good for nothing- I-I don't believe it!" Something unsettling formed in the doe's stomach. "How could any mammal be so...awful?"

"Eh dunno. Maybe t'was jealousy over d'bond I've with his godfather." Duke shrugged. "Thas' all I got really - I spent most of the sem' break with his family, and while he was actin' his usual cold and distant self-" he smiled wistfully and continued. "-I didn't realize just how much treachery he was capable of."

The lapin was at the edge of her seat gripping the foam so hard (be it from anticipation or dread, she wasn't sure). "I went back home for coup'la days b'fore returnin' to Zoo-A, and in that period, d'sly sod got his plan in motion. When I got to 'em dorm rooms, campus security was waitin' for me along with what's left of my already few belongings."

"What?! But that's illegal! They can't just kick you out for no reason!"

"Oh, Judy, there was 'em charges, some accusations Wilde Junior had made." The weasel raised his paw pads in an 'air-quoting' motion. "But like 'em preys in jail. . .what would I fight ol' Nicky with? My Da' didn't have money for no lawyer. And mammals like foxy boy had been goin'ta Zoo-A for gens and gens while a townie like m'self's only been goin for months."

Judy's feet were thumping badly (as her mind was) with every bit of information she was trying to process. "We can't let pompous jerks like him get away with this."

Duke grinned at her, but then it faded. "Someday, Nicky'll get what's comin'ta him, but it aint' gonna be from me. I couldn't do that'ta Mrs. Wilde. It ain't her fault her son is how he is."

"You're a far better mammal than I am then, Duke."

"Eh hardly. After all, I'm plannin'ta crash one of em' parties this weekend."

"You couldn't possibly mean Flash Slothmore's party, right?"

The dog was slightly taken aback. "Ya already knew about that, huh?"

"Yeah...Izzy told me," The doe began to explain. "She's pretty relentless and have already made me agree to go to his party on Saturday night. And now I know you're coming...I might just find it 'slightly' bearable."

"Hah! Am surprised mammals haven't started tryin'ta turn you against me yet."

"I don't care what any mammal thinks," Judy looked at him, pointedly. "You should realize that I'd know better than to believe anything most mammals at the academy would say anyway. Although, if I'm being honest- I'm slightly concern how you're going to get in?"

The weasel's impish grin made a reappearance. "Y'all don't give us townies enough credit. We find out 'bout 'em parties, and a bunch of us usually crash 'em. No mammal seems'ta notice with so many others around, y'know?."

She tried to hide any hint of desperation in her voice. "Okay...now, please tell me you're going to come on Saturday."

"Now ya've put me in a tough spot. If y'all gonna be there, how could I not show up?" The dog winked at her but looked as though he is still contemplating. "Still, I make no promises since I've a feelin' some o'l fox is gonna be there - I'll try for ya though."

That was really all the rabbit wanted to hear Duke say, yet her mind kept reeling over what Nicholas had done. Priscilla had nearly convinced her that she'd been too harsh on the fox, as it turns out she apparently hadn't been harsh enough. When the dog walked her back near the campus gates, she almost pulled him into a hug. She was taunted and bullied to her wits end, but she has never been betrayed like he did. And it was nice to finally spend time with a mammal who understands what it's like to get the shorter end of the carrot.

"D'yah need a momen'ta prepare for battle madam?" Duke asked, only half joking.

"Oh har-har."

"All said and done, this ol' dog had a great time."

"Me, too. Thanks for inviting me."

The weasel leaned over...and gave her a hug. "C'yah at the party," he murmured.

Judy smiled. "See you, Duke." She stared at his retreating figure before turning to the beautiful exterior of the building that had been her home for the past five months.

After checking the time, she ploddingly made a beeline towards her dorm room and come clean to Priscilla. She should have suspected that when she relayed Duke's story to her friend, the sloth didn't share the same disgust that the bunny had at Nicholas' actions.

"Duke Weaselton. . .Judy?. . .I haven't heard. . .good things. . .about him." Priscilla looked worried.

"Now there's a real shocker."

"I'm sure there's. . .to be an explanation. . .for all of this. . .Nick wouldn't do. . .something like that. . .and Flash would never. . .have a friend who. . .was that despicable. . .maybe it's only. . .a simple misunderstanding?"

"Izzy?! Are you serious?!" Judy was beyond astonished. "How could someone misunderstand being expelled from school without probable cause? Didn't you hear anything about it?"

Priscilla looked thoughtful for a minute. "Well, I do remember. . .he got kicked out. . .and that Flash. . .sort of knew him. . .but it wasn't. . .something that he'd. . .talked to me about."

The doe couldn't believe that someone getting kicked out of campus wouldn't reach the rumor mill nor the tabloids of Zootopia Academy. 'If only Benji was still a student here,' she thought.

The folivoran continued. "Okay, if it really. . .means that much to. . .you, I'll ask Flash. . .what he has to. . .say about it. . .but Judy be careful. . .and please give Nick. . .the benefit of doubt. . .He was painted as. . .this maniacal villain. . .and it couldn't be. . .further from the truth."

"Ugh, Izzy...you're just saying that because Nicholas being a vengeful jerk would reflect poorly on Flash." The lapin argued but was only ignored by the sloth who just continued brushing her fur.

The silence in the room only lasted a moment, if not for Diana barging through the doors again and jumping onto her cousin's bed. "Izzy. . .I just spoke with. . .Nana and she said. . .she already talked to Vera. . .Fang about your prom dress."

"Shush Dinah. . .I haven't been asked. . .to prom yet so. . .don't jinx it."

The older sloth looked slightly embarrassed, but her younger counterpart rolled on her belly and propped her paws under her chin asking, "Where are you. . .going to get. . .your dress Judy?"

"Oh, uhm, I highly doubt I'll be going. But if I were, guess I'll buy one at the Mousy's downtown or something."

Diana's jaw dropped open. " What. . .?! It's. . .prom! You can't. . . do that!

Judy took a calming breath. "I know Dinah, but it's just one night and I think it's silly to spend thousands on a dress I'd ever wore once." Then turn to her friend. "No offense Izzy."

"None. . .taken Judy," Priscilla replied. "Dinah. . .you really need to. . .learn to be modest. . .Not every mammal is. . .lucky enough to have. . .connections with designers."

The other sloth snorted. "Please. . .! Zootopia Academy. . .is all about connections!"

And the bunny couldn't agree more as she recalled Duke's story which was far better than listening to Diana rambled on about the upcoming spring break and not being able to go 'galloping' through Hamsterdam or Belwalrus.

"I'm sure Nana. . .said gallivanting, and. . .I understand her point. . .We're going to have. . .to start making some. . .sacrifices now." The folivoran looked uncomfortably at her friend.

"But that's so. . . not fair!" Dinah pouted. "It isn't our. . . fault that Granddad's. . .business almost got robbed. . .Why do we have. . . to be punished?"

"Enough. . .Dinah!" exclaimed a frowning Priscilla. "You sound like. . . a spoiled brat. . .Be grateful that. . .Granddad got a nice. . .severance deal or. . .we all would be. . . out on the street. . .Now back to. . .your room!"

After her grumbling cousin left, the sloth turned to Judy once again. "I'm really sorry. . .about, well, that. . . I don't know. . .what to do. . .with her anymore." She glanced at the door as if she's making sure Dinah wasn't eavesdropping. "I haven't told. . . her yet about . . .the party on Saturday. . .Flash told me to. . . invite her, but-"

The folivoran didn't have to say it - Judy understood. That sloth could be a little too much at times.

"You're still. . .coming, right?" Priscilla asked. "There wouldn't be. . .a repeat of. . .last time I'll. . .make sure of it."

"Of course, Izzy." the smiling doe told her like she always did.

Judy was, after all, uncharacteristically excited about this party. Only not for the reasons her friend thought. And she didn't want to break her heart when she finds out it's because there would be an unexpected guest. She should have felt some kind of remorse, since Flash had been nothing but kind and generous to her. Though her desire to spend more time with Duke and seeing Nicholas's reaction about it eclipsed any feeling of betrayal she had.

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Chapter Text

11

stolen glances & coat

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Priscilla, being a real saint, ended up inviting Diana to the party that Saturday - perhaps it was because she literally is the greatest (and most forgiving) cousin on the planet, or because she was in especially good spirits since Flash had asked her out on a date come Sunday night.

'Maybe Nana Tripletoe had been right in giving her old friend Vera a call,' Judy thought, as she entertain the possibility that nothing could ruin her friend's mood. And because she was also going to spend time with Duke, nothing could ruin her mood as well. For the first time since she'd arrived in Zootopia, she was genuinely excited to be getting ready for an off-campus party.

The bunny spent the majority of her Saturday going through her friend's closet, trying to figure out what to wear - not wanting to dress in anything that screamed expensive. She didn't want the weasel to think she was no different than the other elites on campus, yet she still wanted to look nice for him. She watched the folivoran study herself in the mirror while the doe debated between which earrings to wear with the white slacks and lilac, fitted cashmere sweater she'd borrowed from her.

Diana (also being herself) came barging in. "I am so. . .excited. My first. . . upperclassman party. . .Freshman mammals are. . .like, so childish."

Staring at her cousin with wide eyes - the younger folivoran was wearing a very short skirt and had enough makeup on to put even Gazelle to shame - Priscilla grabbed a handful of tissues and started wiping Diana's face. The younger female protested but the older one was not deterred. "Remember what we. . . talked about yesterday. . .Dinah.".

The upper-class sloth only allowed Diana to come after she agreed not to talk about money or prom dresses or spring break.

"Are we. . .ready?" Priscilla asked finally, as she studied herself in the mirror one last time. Though the lapin thought if she was asking herself more than the mammals present when she took a deep breath and opened their room door.

The three females arrived at a large private room at the top floor of an upscale building downtown that catered to the faculty, students, and parents of Zootopia Academy. It was a beautiful space, filled with all kinds of couches, a large window overlooking the city skyline, candles, and a slightly elevated stage where some students were already dancing. Judy scanned the venue for Duke, but she couldn't seem to find him anywhere.

"Who are you. . . looking for, Judy?" Priscilla asked when she caught the rabbit surveying the crowd.

"Oh, uhm, I'm just, having a look around. You know? Making sure there aren't any traps."

The sloth grimaced at the doe's comment.

"I'm kidding!" the bunny felt her phone vibrate and saw that the weasel had sent her a text. "Oh."

"Hey, what's. . .wrong?"

Judy's heart sank. "Oh, nothing, Izzy. Nothing at all." Her townie friend wasn't coming. He said that he truly wanted to but thought it would be best to avoid a certain mammal. Glaring over at Nicholas Wilde, who was in a corner with Flash and Beatrix, any hope she had for a remarkable evening completely dissolved. Now she was stuck in a room full of mammals who laughed at and looked down on her very existence. Instead of hanging out with Duke, she would have to brace herself for whatever torture was going to come her way tonight.

"Are you sure. . . you're okay, Judy?" her best friend looked concerned.

"Izzy, I'm really fine. Don't worry." The rabbit lied. Her evening was already ruined, she didn't want Priscilla's to turn out the same.

A moose waiter came over with a silver tray filled with an exquisite looking selection of hors d'oeuvres.

"Oooh. . .yum." Diana grabbed a handful of food. "So much better. . .than the ones they. . . serve in the. . .dining hall." She made a disgusted face while shoving a crostino with cranberry-fig and cheese in her mouth.

Priscilla sighed.

"Hello. . .ladies!" Flash approached with a huge smile on his face. "Thanks. . . for coming." He kissed the female sloth lightly on the cheek before hugging both the doe and the other folivoran.

While Priscilla never seemed to see the bad side of mammals, Judy genuinely believed that Flash didn't have a bad side. He even put up with Diana's incessant questions about the party, the food, and everything else she could think to ask. To say that the bunny was surprised the younger sloth didn't ask him to open up his wallet so she could see how much cash he has, was an understatement.

With Diana still playing twenty inappropriate questions, the rabbit started taking in her surroundings (or, more accurately, who was there at the party). The standard elites were in their respective cliques, and she did catch a few of them staring in their direction. She looked down at her outfit and realized that she could be dressed head to toe in designer clothing, yet they still look at her with disdain. She reminded them that there was a life outside the precious little bubble they lived in. And she knew they despised her for many things, especially for thriving despite their efforts to chase and bring her down.

Her attention was brought back to her own group and could see Priscilla's eyes growing wider every time her cousin opened her mouth.

"Dawn's here," Judy nodded towards the door, where an ewe stood. "And Diana, they just brought out something that looks like mini-Bug'Burgas." As she thought the younger sloth would, the other Tripletoe heiress homed in on the server and mercifully left. She leaned in closer to Priscilla and whispered, "I'll keep an eye on her. Have fun with Flash." Her friend smiled gratefully and went over to a group of couches with the host. She waved Dawn over, but Gareth, mistaking that the enthusiasm was for him, approached as well.

"Hello, Judith," he said. "Lovely to see you here and dressed in such a pleasing manner. What blend is that fabric?"

"Yeah, I, uh, nice seeing you as well, Gareth."

The yearling ram leaned in and put his hand on the small of the doe's back. "Judith, do you think I could persuade you in joining me on the dance floor?"

"Oh, I, uhm, have you met Dawn Bellwether?"

Dawn and Gareth exchanged pleasantries; the lapin was hoping this distraction would keep her from dancing with the latter.

"Shall we, Judith?" Gareth motioned toward the platform where a few mammals were moving to a slightly slow song.

Deciding that she may as well get it over with (as she couldn't think of a good excuse), Judy walked with ram to the dance floor. Once there, he awkwardly grabbed her waist, and she cautiously placed her arms around his shoulders. He started to move and, not a minute into the song, stepped on the rabbit's foot.

"Oh, I'm so sorry," he said, staring at their steps as if they were math equations he needed to solve.

"That's okay." Judy started to move back and forth, trying not to make her movements too sudden.

"Well, you're certainly an excellent dancer."

"Uh, thank you."

"I wonder if there's anything you can't do, Judith?" he mused on. "You can play an instrument, dance, are smart enough to get a scholarship and, might I add, could brew good coffee."

She forced out a laugh. "Oh, I, uh don't know."

"Once again, Judith, you are too humble."

"Hah! Thanks."

"You are more than welcome."

Judy tried to avoid any more awkward exchanges by pretending she was enthralled by a painting that hung on the wall behind Gareth until the song thankfully ended, allowing an escape from her misery that is the yearling ram.

"You l-look like you're h-having fun?" Dawn laughed as the doe approached.

The bunny rolled her eyes at her friend. "And you?"

"I m-mean, things h-have gotten e-easier for me..." The ewe bit her lip. She had always felt guilty that the torture she endured became less severe when the lapin arrived on campus. She tried to smile when the smaller female gave an understanding nod. "And the f-food's great t-too."

"Ooh that does look good. I'll go grab-"

Nicholas Wilde was suddenly in front of the does. "Hi."

"Uh, hello?"

The fox good-naturedly chuckled. "I was hoping you could join me for a dance."

Judy was completely shocked by his invitation.

When she didn't respond, the todd said, "Right, ah, I'll see you in a moment." And with that, he walked away.

"Corns and cobs!" She looked at Dawn. "Did Nicholas Wilde just ask me to dance?"

"He d-did." The ewe answered, her mouth still dropped open. "I t-think. . .he l-likes you, Judy."

"What?"

"That f-fox" - she jabbed a hoof in his direction - "likes y-you."

"But that's crazy Dawn!"

"I'm w-well aware he made a b-bad impression o-on you-"

"That's understating it—"

"But he o-obviously has f-feelings for you." There was amusement behind the sheep's eye.

"Oh fiddlesticks!"

Dawn paused. "And I t-think you h-have a thing for h-him, too."

"Okay, you've completely lost your mind." The rabbit huffed. "There's nothing going on between me and Nicholas. He's obviously just setting me up for something."

"Judy!"

"I'm being serious." She countered. "Plus, he asked and then just disappeared. He's planning something."

"Yeah, w-well, he's been s-stealing glances at y-you — and is h-heading over here again." Tilting her head where a fox was slowly making his way back.

He was staring intently at the smaller doe, then nodded towards the dance floor, and walked over there.

Judy looked at her friend. "Am I supposed to follow him now?"

The ewe rolled her eyes and pushed the lapin. "Ack! W-will you j-just go already?!"

In a complete daze, the rabbit got on the dance floor. It was like she having an out-of-body experience. She found herself going through different emotions, but also looking around to figure out where the possible ambush was coming from. The todd slipped his arms around her, with much more ease than Gareth had, and before she knew it, they were in something approximating an embrace.

Nicholas was several inches taller than her, and he leaned his muzzle down so their eyes locked.

'I was face-to-face with the enemy.' Her breath got caught in her throat.

"You made it home safe that night, I see." he said, testing the waters.

"Ha-hah-ho, yes. And I'm always touched by your concern for my safety."

Judy broke away from his gaze but ended up being greeted by dozens of eyeballs transfixed on them. At first, she thought they were waiting for something to happen. But then she noticed the jealousy and outrage on the other female mammals' faces. It seemed that not a single one of them could believe that Zootopia Academy's most eligible student would be slow dancing with her.

"Working has many benefits, you know." She turned back to him. "Not that you need a job — but it's really great for meeting a new friend."

The vulpine clenched his jaw. "Right, Duke Weaselton. He really has a knack in making friends." And added with a scoff. "Retaining them, however, has always been quite a challenge for him."

"Yeah. . . I'm pretty sure he cries himself to sleep every night, after losing such a wonderful friend as you."

Nicholas only greeted her response with silence. They swayed to the music for the remainder of the song, and when she thought she was finally going to be free, he tightened his grip around her waist — a new song began.

Judy furrowed her eyebrows and stated. "I can't figure you out at all."

"Why Miss Hopps, are you finding yourself thinking a lot about me these days?"

The bunny huffed at his conceitedness. "Oh hardly. And if you must know, you just don't seem to make any sense."

"And you do?" He smirked.

She thought for a moment. "No, I guess I don't." Stepping back from him and pulling her arms away. "But I'm not the one with issues about mammals and money — it's you who has a problem with those without money."

The fox looked down at the floor. "You're right. . .you don't understand me at all."

"We're a lost cause, then." She turned her back on him and walked off the dance floor.

Judy was trying to not seem desperate as she looked for her friends in the cluster of mammals around the room, when she felt a tug on her arm. It was Beatrix, who was with Phern Beaverly.

"And what do you think you're doing?" the lynx asked accusingly.

"Uhm, I'm sorry, but I don't know what you mean." She curtly replied.

The feline looked disgusted. "I heard from Priscilla that you've been hanging around with that Weaselton townie."

"So?"

Beatrix lip curled up. "So? He's not to be trusted."

"I really doubt you have any concern about my well-being or who I spend my time with."

"I couldn't care less about you in general." the feline admitted. "But I do care about Nicky and the mere mention of Duke's name upsets him. Especially after everything that dog has done to him."

"What Duke has done to Nicholas?"

"Ugh. I don't really have time for this. You're hopeless." Rolling her eyes the feline walked away.

Judy was about to go as well, but Phern blocked her path.

"You know, Hopps, for a country bumpkin who claims to have no interest in Nicky, you seem to spend enough time with him."

The bunny turned and backed away, just in time to see Priscilla waving her down from the other side of the room.

"Judy!" The sloth approached with a worried look. "What was. . .that about?"

Even her friend knew something had to be off if Beatrix and Phern were speaking to her. Especially the former — whose influence over her brother and his unexplained respect for her were the only things about Flash the rabbit didn't like. She didn't know what to tell Priscilla. She would do anything for her, but she couldn't turn back time.

"I...want to go home," Judy said, heading back to get her coat at the counter.

Flash approached the two. "Izzy. . .is Judy okay?"

"Oh yes, Flash. . . she's fine. . . She, uh, has. . . a bit of. . .a headache, so . . .we're going home."

The rabbit, surprised of the sloth's white lie, handed their tickets over to the attendant. "It was really a great party, Flash. Thanks so much for inviting us."

Before the folivoran host had a chance to respond, the mammal at the coat check handed Priscilla's coat then abashedly said. "Er, the other coat isn't back here."

"Uhm, but I gave you the ticket." The doe nervously chuckled.

"I know, Miss, but that hanger's empty."

"Wait. . .what?" Priscilla impugned.

Flash grabbed both tickets from the attendant and went behind the counter to look for the coat. But the lapin had a sinking feeling that he wasn't going to find it.

"What on earth is going on here?" Gareth came over, with Nicholas behind him.

"Nothing important," the bunny dismissed.

"This is. . .ridiculous!" Flash exclaimed. "How could a mammal. . .just walk off with. . .somebody else's coat?. . .I want to. . . see your manager."

The staff looked nervous. "That's not necessary, Sir. What did it, uh, look like, Miss?"

"It was a cream peacoat, it came just above my knees..."

Eyes growing wide. "Er, what brand?"

Judy looked back toward Gareth and Nicholas. "It was brandless."

"Oh. . ." The color drained from the attendant's face.

"What do you. . .mean, 'oh'?" Flash was furious.

This was the first time Judy has ever seen him angry. And she also realized that he was standing up for her.

'I am so used to being attacked, not defended.' Her bottom lip started quivering.

"Some females came over to get their coats earlier, then one of them said she'd lost her claim and identified that coat. And, well, I didn't think . . ." The staff was embarrassed. The rabbit already knew what was going to be said: When there were all these expensive and designer brands, who would lie about having such a nonglamorous item of clothing?

"I-uh, j-just forget about it." She tried to keep her voice even.

Priscilla wrapped an arm around her friend's trembling body.

"Oh Judy. . .I'm so sorry." Flash was aghast.

Gareth started to take off his blazer. "Here Judith, you could have my jacket."

The male folivoran took out his wallet. "Let me pay. . . you for it. . . I'm horrified that. . . something like this. . . happened at my party. . .I can't believe it."

The thing was, Judy could believe it. Something had to happen this evening. She couldn't attend a party without some sort of humiliation. All along, she'd assumed somebody was going to throw something at her, or trip her, or set her fur on fire. But instead, they'd stolen from her. And not because they wanted what she had but simply because they could. So, she quickly waved away Gareth's and Flash's offers (or even Nicholas's unexplainable gaze) then went into the night cold and unprotected — with her best friend and the reminder that things were never going to get easier.

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Chapter Text

12

unexpected proposal & prospect

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Judy spent the next day replaying the evening in her head, but all she had were more questions. What had Duke done instead of being with her? Would the pranks against her ever end? Would her or Diana's behavior last night affect Priscilla and her prospects? Were the students at Zootopia Academy really going to be so cruel and judgmental?

Unfortunately, the bunny already knew the answer as she raced out of the music room the second her lesson was finished. Her paws were still tinged with the scent of polished wood and music sheets when she spotted an unexpected visitor waiting outside.

"Judith, did you find your coat?" Gareth, with his neatly combed wool and polished hooves, motioned toward Priscilla's 'Coco Camel' blazer that the doe had borrowed until spring finally arrives.

"Unfortunately, no," she replied, forcing a smile.

"I'm sorry to hear that," The ram's eyes drifting into a memory. "I once lost a jacket I loved very much. It was tweed and onyx black. Really, it was a fine coat. My sister had a matching one but hers was opal white. We often wore them together. But then, one day, I left it in a park. When my nanny and I went back for it...it was gone."

The bunny could feel her eyelids growing heavy, the same way they did during the third section of the piece Mrs. Otterton made her practice. She tried to shake the thought away, but his narration only added weight on the events of last night pulled at her mind.

"Anyway," he continued, oblivious to her distraction, "I was wondering if I might speak with you for a moment."

"Sure." The rabbit perched on the edge of a nearby bench, trying to appear interested.

"There are certain rites of passage that I think are very important to students of our dear Zootopia Academy," Gareth said, puffing out his chest a little as he began his speech.

Judy nodded, her thoughts still drifting to the piano keys she'd practiced just moments before. Did Mrs. Otterton notice her distractedness? She always had a way of seeing through the layers, yet she chose to remain silent, guiding the doe through her lessons with a concern look and knowing smile.

"Prom is one of those rites." The lapin's stomach dropped. "It is a momentous occasion, especially for someone like yourself, and I believe that we'd make a great match to attend. Obviously, we have the dancing part down." He chuckled softly, his confidence unwavering.

'Was he really suggesting what I think?' Judy's felt a hint of flattery stirred in her chest, mixed with an awkward sense of disbelief. She opened her mouth to respond, but the words tangled in her throat.

He let out a small laugh. "And I know with your circumstances you may have some difficulty with the dress, but I would be more than willing to pay for your accoutrements if that would make you more comfortable. I ..." the ram's prim stature faltered for a moment and he seemed to be at a loss for words. No doubt this was the first time such a thing had ever happened to him. "I do. . . find you most appealing. I've never met a mammal like you before. You certainly are someone that I've always found very curious."

The doe knew that she should've probably taken everything Gareth has said as a compliment, but from the way he said it, she couldn't help but think he found her more interesting as an oddity in his rich world than someone he found genuinely attractive and worthy of dating.

"We can obviously work out all the details at a later date, but I thought it would be best to move forward with our plans."

"Uhm, thanks, for thinking of me," she finally managed to say, her voice barely above a whisper. She didn't want to get his hopes up, but before she could say anything more, he continued.

"My pleasure, Judith. We'll be in touch." Gareth started walking away, leaving her feeling lightheaded.

"Wait, what?! Hold on!" The lapin called out after him. "I didn't give you an answer!"

Gareth turned back, a hint of confusion on his face. "Well, I just assumed..."

"Well, you shouldn't." Judy stood up, her ears flattening slightly as her heart sank. "While I'm honored that you'd want to take me to prom, I'm going to have to decline."

The ram laughed, clearly misunderstanding her. "Ah, I am familiar with this. Playing hard to get, are we?"

Her surprise turned to offense, a flush creeping to her cheeks. "No, I'm not!"

"Judith, I know how girls like you are. The ones who want to be pursued first. Very well, I'll play your game."

"No, Gareth." She stepped closer, her heart pounding. "Yes, I'm flattered, but the answer is—and will always be—no." She hated the firmness in her tone, but he was making it impossible to be gentle. "My response won't change. I'm sorry."

He paused, brow furrowing in thought. "This is why I like you so much, Judith—you're unpredictable. I am more than sure we'll have a great time."

"Apparently, you aren't hearing me."

Gareth sighed, his expression shifting. "I do hear you, but—please know I mean no disrespect—do you really think with your circumstances that you'll be getting other offers?"

His bluntness struck her like a sharp note out of tune, sending her stomach twisting.

"No," she replied quietly, "I'm sure I won't. But I know that prom here is probably something that I wouldn't enjoy, and you should really go with someone who you'd have fun with."

"I have every confidence that next time I discuss this with you, your answer will be different."

"No, Gareth. Please tell me if there's anything I'm doing right now to make you think that there will be another answer. Because if you let me know, I will correct it so you can ask somebody else."

"Oh, Judith Hopps, you really are something else." He squeezed her shoulder lightly, the gesture making her feel trapped, and then walked away.

'How much clearer could I have been?' Judy couldn't help but feel a mix of disbelief and frustration as she walked back to the dorms. Her mind still swirling with thoughts of Gareth and his unsolicited proposal. The hallway felt long, each step heavy with the weight of her emotions. As she entered her shared room, the lively chatter of her friends greeted her.

"Oh, g-good—you're f-finally here!" Dawn exclaimed, her eyes sparkling with excitement before the rabbit even had the door halfway open.

"Well, I uh, had a. . .visitor," the lapin replied, her gaze falling on a large silver box perched on her bed. "What's that?"

Priscilla jumped up from her seat, her movements betraying her enthusiasm. "We don't know. . . that's why we've been. . . dying for you. . . to come home. . . I think it was... delivered an hour ago."

'What in Luna's name?! Judy raised an eyebrow. "But I didn't order any—"

"O-open it!" The ewe practically bounced with anticipation, grabbing the box and placing it in Judy's arms. "I w-want to see w-who it's f-from!"

"And I want to. . .know what it is," Priscilla quipped, leaning forward.

Judy sat down on her bed, excitement tinged with trepidation. As she untied the purple ribbon and carefully peeled back the paper, her heart raced. When she revealed a beautiful cream winter coat, she gasped, nearly dropping it. The designer's name on the tag made her feel lightheaded.

"Who sent this?" she exclaimed, her eyes darting around for a card, receipt, or any hint of the sender.

Dawn and Priscilla joined her, sifting through the tissue paper strewn across the floor.

"Izzy?"

Her best friend looked up, a mix of concern and excitement on her face. "It wasn't from. . .me, I swear. . .Maybe it's from Flash. . .but why wouldn't he. . .have sent a card. . . or said something... to me about it?"

Suddenly, Judy's stomach twisted with realization. She knew exactly who it was from, and it made her feel awful. "It's from Gareth."

"H-how do you k-know?" the ewe asked, her voice laced with curiosity.

"Because he. . . just asked me to prom."

"What?!" Her two friends echoed in unison, surprise written all over their faces.

"And I told him no," she added, filling them in on the details of the ram's proposal—how honest and somewhat rude she'd been. Though in her defense, the ram was one of the smartest students in their year, yet he seemed completely oblivious to her feelings.

"I can't b-believe you aren't g-going, Judy!" Dawn said, her tone incredulous. "Besides, it was t-thoughtful of him to o-offer to buy your d-dress—and now this."

Judy groaned, looking down at the coat. "I can't keep this; it's too much. And it's not like I have anything against Gareth." She sighed, fingers grazing the soft fabric. "He's nice and generous. But I'm not going to fool myself into thinking I'd be welcome at prom. Every time I go to a party, something bad always happens."

'And I want to go to something like that with someone special', she thought, the ache in her heart growing slightly heavier.

Dawn shrugged, a wistful look crossing her face. "I w-would be d-disappointed if I d-didn't go. Plus, Gareth is a-also right; you and I are t-tainted goods."

"I can't believe. . . you would say. . .such a thing, Dawn," Priscilla interjected, horrified. "At least you two. . . don't have a cousin. . .who has no issue. . .humiliating you in front. . .of the entire world!"

"Oh, I didn't realize the entire world fit into the restaurant last night," the lapin remarked, trying to lighten the mood. "And to think, I missed the opportunity to poke fun at Diana about her dancing."

"I t-think she was d-doing something that looked like Celtic s-step dancing but with her p-paws in the air and occasional wooing," Dawn supplied, her expression amused.

Priscilla shook her head as she pulled up her latest 'ICarrot', her eyes narrowing. "Ugh, don't remind me. . .the family's so proud." She turned the screen toward them, showing a video of Diana's impromptu performance. "Behold the latest. . .internet sensation!"

The bunny scrolled through the hate-filled comments, her heart aching for her friend. "Oh, Izzy... I'm so sorry."

The sloth sighed. "Someday, I'm going to. . .get over it like. . .everyone else."

A heavy silence settled in the room as they absorbed the gravity of Diana's situation. Just then, someone's phone rang, cutting through the tension like a knife.

Judy's heart raced as she saw the caller ID light up with Duke's name. She stepped into the hallway for some privacy, a smile tugging at her lips.

"Hey," she said, running a paw behind her ear.

"So, still talkin' to me even after I left ya alone to be with 'em trust-fund babies last night?" His drawl wrapped around the words, warm and friendly.

"Hmn, I guess I could see my way to forgive you."

"Aww, that's gen'rously very un-Zootopian of ya, Judy." He chuckled, the sound sending a thrill through her. "Careful now, ya might find yerself gettin' kicked out next."

"At least then I'd be in better company," she replied, a teasing grin spreading across her face.

A tingle went up her spine as he laughed. "Listen, I'm real sorry for bailin', especially at the last minute. I truly wanted to be there, had every intention of makin' it. But last night, as I was gettin' ready, it hit me—if I showed up, it wouldn't be good for ya. No way I could be in the same room with you-know-who, and I didn't wanna stir up any trouble for ya."

"I understand. I don't like being in the same room with him either," she admitted, remembering how the tension had crackled in the air whenever Nicholas Wilde was nearby.

Just then, Dawn emerged from the shared room. "Judy? Izzy n-needs you."

"Listen, can I call you back?"

"You better," he replied, the warmth in his voice lingering as she rushed back inside.

The sight that greeted her was concerning: her best friend curled up on her bed, clearly upset. "Izzy, what's wrong? You know nobody will be talking about that stupid video in a week."

"No, it's not that." Priscilla handed over her phone, her expression heavy. There was a text from Flash:

'Can't make it tonight. Things are hectic. I'll be in touch.'

"Oh." Judy's heart sank. This wasn't like the sloth's beau at all. He'd been so devoted, hovering around Priscilla like a bee to nectar at the party. "I'm sure it's nothing serious, Izzy. Why don't we go grab some dinner together? A little time out might help clear your head."

Dawn nodded enthusiastically, trying to lighten the mood. "You n-need some good f-food and company to r-remind you how much a-awesome you are to w-worry about this l-little hiccup."

Hesitantly, Priscilla agreed and got ready.

Judy then quickly called Duke back to explain the situation. He was sympathetic, understanding her concern for Izzy's feelings. Once her companions were set, she hung up so they all could head down the long staircase toward the dining hall. However, as the trio reached the bottom of the staircase, they caught sight of Beatrix sauntering through the main entrance alongside Phern. When the lynx's sharp gaze landed on them, her lips curled into a smirk.

"I'm so glad you're coming out tonight with us, dear." she cooed to the beaver, her tone dripping with insincerity. "Oh, I really think you and Flash will hit it off."

Priscilla froze mid-step, her eyes wide with disbelief, the color draining from her face.

The feline continued, her voice laced with condescension. "You know how crucial it is to protect your family name. When you're both a Swift and a Slothmore, like a Beaverly, it's important to choose your company wisely. I'd think most students would know that well." She cast a disdainful glance toward the trio, her smirk growing. "Or at least those who care about their reputation."

Phern nodded obediently, her gaze cast down, as if the weight of Beatrix's words pressed heavily on her shoulders. Together, they swept out the door, leaving the folivoran staring in shock.

"Izzy..." the lapin began, but the sloth's expression hardened, her voice barely a whisper.

"So, that's it. . .then! I've been. . .replaced by Phern Beaverly!"

"That's ridiculous! I'm sure there's an explanation—"

But before the words could fully form, Priscilla turned on her heel, retreating up the staircase. "I'm not. . .hungry anymore."

The two does exchanged worried glances, the oppressive air of Flash's stepsister's words lingering like a shadow.

"Wait, Izzy!" The lapin rushed after her, Dawn trailing behind. "Anybody who has ever seen you and Flash together knows that he is crazy about you."

Priscilla's voice was small, almost hopeful. "Real. . .ly?"

"Oh p-please, if Nicholas Wilde l-looked at that Beatrix Swift with e-even half the affection t-that Flash looks at you..." Dawn paused dramatically, "She'd be w-walking around campus w-with her prom d-dress on."

"Exactly—" the bunny hummed.

"Which of c-course would never h-happen because that fox's too b-busy gawking at Judy."

The words hung in the air like an unexpected note in a familiar melody. Realizing what the ewe just said, Judy felt her cheeks flush a deep crimson. "W-wait, what? Nicholas Wilde? A-and me? Seriously Dawn, this again?"

Leaning closer, a sly smile creeping onto the ewe's face. "Judy, he s-stares at you w-whenever he thinks no o-one is watching — I've c-caught him multiple t-times already!"

"So? That doesn't mean anything!" The bunny felt heat now creeping into her ears.

"And, l-let's not forget, a-at the party," the sheep continued, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "He o-only danced w-with you! You should've s-seen his face when y-you left. It's l-like someone stole his f-favorite treat."

The smaller doe's heart raced at the thought, as bewilderment twisted in her stomach. "He was probably disappointed about me not being tortured enough last night."

Dawn crossed her hooves, unconvinced.

Judy turned to Priscilla, who was watching them with a mix of curiosity and exhaustion in her eyes. "Izzy, you know Flash cares about you. He wouldn't up and date someone else," she said softly.

"You're s-special to him." The ewe added in a much gentler tone. "He w-wouldn't let the l-likes of Phern come b-between you two."

Priscilla's expression softened but doubt lingered. "You guys really. . . think everything. . .will be alright?"

"One hundred percent." both preys assured the sloth, and a glimmer of hope returned to her eyes.

But as their conversation shifted to the dinner menu, Judy couldn't shake her own worries and hoped with all her heart that Flash Slothmore wasn't involve with Phern Beaverly — especially for Priscilla's sake.

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Chapter Text

13

questionable choices & connections

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If there was one thing that Judy would have bet her entire life savings on (as meager as the sum may have been), it was that Flash would be back to pursuing her best friend in a matter of days. But cripes, was she wrong—dead wrong.

Almost a week and a half had passed since Beatrix dropped the Phern bomb on them, and still...nothing. The bunny could no longer watch Priscilla stare at her cell phone—wishing for it to ring—without breaking her own heart. It was at the point where the sloth wasn't the only one confused by Mr. Slothmore's action (or in this case, his lack thereof).

'It didn't make sense. How would some mammal just drop off the face of Zootopia?'

Another candidate to the list of mammals with confusing behaviors was none other than Gareth, who refused to admit he'd bought the cream peacoat and had long since been missing in action—or at least he had stopped visiting the doe at the Big Donut (which, if she were being completely honest, was quite a relief on itself).

And as if that wasn't enough to stress the lapin, February 14th also loomed just around the corner. If there was anything worse than mammals obsessing over prom, it was mammals fretting over Valentine's Day — especially since she had learned that it was the prime occasion for Zootopia Academy's male students to ask a female to prom.

Now the mere sight of red balloons and heart-shaped decorations infiltrating the campus and downtown area felt like salt in the wound. Which was why Judy made it her mission to shield Priscilla from this onslaught of romantic gestures. That Thursday evening, she even volunteered to run to the dining hall for dinner, dreading the possibility of red meals served on heart-shaped plates.

On her way there, however, she ran into a rather anxious-looking Dawn Bellwether.

"Achk! H-hey. . . Judy!" the discomfort evident in her wool. "H-heading to d-dinner?"

As they descended the staircase, the rabbit caught sight of Gareth lingering in the entrance hall. "Oh, pickled parsnips! What does he want now? Can't he take a hint?"

"A-Actually Judy," The ewe slowed her pace, looking unnerved. "He's h-here for me."

"Uh, what?" The bunny blinked, her surprise unmistakable.

"I d-didn't know when to t-tell you, but I'm g-going to prom w-with Gareth."

"That's a good one, Dawn." The lapin let out a small laugh, though it felt awkward. "You always know when. . . to crack a joke."

The sheep's smile wavered, clearly not expecting her friend's reaction. "No, I'm s-serious."

"Oh..."

"Are you s-shocked he managed to g-get over your r-rejection?"

'Wait what?'

"Uh-no, sorry, not at all." Judy didn't know which one of them should have been more offended— Dawn for her thinking that the ewe was second to her, or Judy for her friend's assumption that she'd be so egotistical. "I know you really want to attend prom, and you deserve to go. I'm just...surprised that you agreed to be his date?"

Dawn shifted uncomfortably, biting her lip. "I d-don't blame you f-for being s-surprised, but I'm n-not a romantic l-like you, Judy—I'm p-practical. I-I needed a m-mammal to come w-with me, a-and it just so h-happen he asked m-me too."

"I see," the smaller doe said, her voice softening. "But are you sure you want to go with. . .I mean, he can be a bit—"

The ewe offered a weak smile. "I k-know he's not p-perfect, but he's a-available—and i-isn't that what c-counts? I just w-want to have a g-good time, even if it's n-not with my i-ideal date."

Considering this, empathy swelled within the lapin. "That's true, but isn't there a possibility you might regret not waiting for someone who'll truly make your prom worth remembering?"

Ears drooping slightly, the sheep sighed. "M-Maybe. . .but I d-don't want to b-be left out e-either. It feels l-like everyone else is m-moving on, and I d-don't want to miss m-my chance."

"No one does." Judy replied, feeling the weight of her own unfulfilled expectations. "Though frankly speaking, I'd rather not go unless it was with someone special to me. And right now, I can't think of any mammal who would fit that description..."

Except, a fleeting image of a mammal danced in her mind: whose pair of emerald eyes sparkled with a hint of mischief and infuriatingly charming grin sometimes etched in its longer red muzzle.

'There's no way! Definitely not him. Just...no!' The rabbit shook her head, dismissing the thought as quickly as it had come, as if it were a pesky fly buzzing about.

"You o-okay, Judy?" Dawn tilted her head, clearly catching the bunny's distracted look.

Judy quickly shifted her focus back. "Oh-ho-kay, if attending prom with Gareth would make you happy, then I wouldn't stand in your way of taking that chance."

The ewe's usual beam returned, though still tinged with apprehension. "I r-really appreciate your s-support, Judy."

"Oh, Dawn. I just want to make sure you'll have a fantastic time. And if things get awkward, you know you can always call me for a rescue mission."

"Hah! T-Thanks. Well, I b-better, h-he's..."

"Of course. You two have a great night."

Judy watched her friend run down to greet Gareth, who had a heart-shaped box of chocolates hidden behind his back. They both seemed happy, albeit a little awkward with each other. The ram tried to go in for a double kiss on the cheek but ended up kissing the ewe's ear. With a sigh, she continued on to the dining hall, gathering food for herself and Priscilla. Since the "Diana Incident," both of them had merely been going through the motions.

Their only saving grace was the upcoming long weekend which would give them a chance to have a breather and avoid the romance overload altogether. But it seemed as though her best friend has run out of luck as Nana Tripletoe herself had insisted on taking her eldest grandchild dress shopping for prom— which (admittedly) would be the most painful reminder of the folivoran's absent beau.

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The following afternoon, just as business slowed down in The Big Donut with the rest of the students leaving the campus, Judy still found herself lost in thought about how Priscilla was coping with everything even with the sloth being hundred miles away. She was almost grateful for the quieter atmosphere, when she was suddenly startled by Duke's voice calling out from behind her.

"Miss me?" the weasel teased.

"Look at you Duke of Happy Town. Didn't think you'd come back to visit at all," the bunny replied, trying to sound casual despite her excitement.

"Well—"

"Judy!" Diana bounded up to the counter. "So glad you're. . .still here!. . .This whole week. . .sucks, and don't. . .let me start. . .with Izzy, ugh!"

The doe tried her best to not roll her eyes at the younger sloth's antics, as she gave Duke an apologetic smile.

"She still hasn't. . .forgiven me and. . .is being so... unreasonably unfair by. . .not letting me. . .join her dress. . .shopping with Nana." After an even dramatic pause, she added, "Oh, I know. . .I'll have a... tall frozen matcha... latte with extra whipped... cream and caramel. . .to relax myself."

This time, the rabbit outwardly grimaced. The sloth knew full well how troublesome those drinks were, but she didn't care — it was not her job, after all.

As the lapin scooped ice, Diana turned her gaze to the weasel. "Hey. . .there handsome," she said, sizing him up. "Have we... met before?"

"Diana, this is Duke Weaselton," Judy interjected, without looking up from her task. "Duke, this is Diana Tripletoe, Izzy's cousin."

"Oh my... you're the one... who got kicked... out of campus and... are sworn enemies... with Nicholas Wilde."

"Diana!" the doe scolded, surprised by how much she sounded like Priscilla in that moment.

The dog just chuckled. "Well, aren't ya direct? I like that."

The bunny switched on the blender, hoping to drown out their incessant chatter. She craved some quality time with Duke (after her postponed solitude) but knew Diana wouldn't let that happen.

The sloth snatched her drink from the doe's hand before she could seal it — then started playing with the straw in what she could only assume was supposed to be a seductive manner.

"When's yer break, Judy?" Duke asked, with a hint of amusement in his eyes.

She glanced at the clock. "I suppose I could take a few minutes now." They made their way to a table, but the younger folivoran trailed behind.

"You know. . .Duke," Diana said, eyeing him, "I think Nicholas. . .probably hates Judy. . .more than he. . .hates you."

"Uh-huh, thanks for that," the rabbit shot her a look.

"What? Isn't that... what you guys... talk about?. . .Nicholas?"

'Why does every mammal keep linking me to that fox?' Judy huffed.

The weasel shrugged. "Ya might not believe it, darlin', but there are topics worth discussin' beyond 'ol Wilde."

"Exactly." In truth, Duke and Judy had seldom spoken about the red fox ever since Flash's party. It was like they have a silent agreement that todd is a topic better left untouched.

"Hmmmn. . .do you have. . .a girlfriend then?" the sloth asked bluntly out of nowhere.

"Hah!" The dog cackled but quipped back. "Why 'lil missy? Ya auditionin'?"

"Please, don't encourage her, Duke." Judy mock whispered to him.

He raised an eyebrow. "Ya know ya could do much better than a townie like m'self, sweetie."

"Well. . .I don't. . .know." Diana swirled her straw, completely unfazed. "I really. . .like bad. . . boys."

Judy stifled a groan. After everything she had gone through with Flash and Priscilla, she didn't need to witness Diana's bold flirtations with Duke.

"That so? Sorry'ta burst yer bubbles then — I'm taken right now," Duke said, casting a playful wink at Judy, which confused her more than she'd like to admit since he hadn't mentioned this new piece of information to her yet.

Scrunching her face, Diana turned her gaze back to the weasel. "Aww. . .who's the. . .lucky girl?"

"Oh, she's from Zoo-A, so ya probably know her," he casually replied, leaning back in his chair.

"Really. . .what's her. . .name?" Diana pressed on.

"Kris Paddleson. She's a senior."

'Kris Paddleson?!' Judy's thoughts raced as a gnawing feeling formed in her gut. She tried to process what he was saying, but it didn't make sense. Didn't he despise the elite mammals at the academy just as much as she did? Sure, she may not know Miss Paddleson at all, but him cozying with a mammal who belonged to the crowd he had always scorned felt so wrong.

Duke, to his benefit, could tell with one look at the bunny that something wasn't right. He turned to the younger sloth. "Could ya give us a few sec to discuss somethin', Diana?"

The folivoran became overly pleased that Duke addressed her using her actual name. She hurriedly got up, went to an empty table, and started texting.

"Listen, Judy," he began. "I didn't tell ya 'coz I know ya won't agree — but I ain't gonna start lyin' to ya and say that me goin' out with Kris don't have no ulterior motive." He leaned in, lowering his voice. "Her Ma runs a pretty big entertainment law firm in Zoo York. It ain't as prestigious next to Mr. Wilde's tailoring corporation, but I thought I'd still try make a connection and pursue my dreams, ya know? An internship at the Paddleson's practically guarantees acceptance at any of 'em top business schools."

The bunny remained silent as she tried to reconcile everything the weasel had said to her in the past month about the spoiled and over-privileged mammals of Zootopia with what he was saying now.

The dog continued. "Sure, I seem like a hypocrite to ya now, but ya gotta understand that we need to take advantage of our situations when we can. Hang around with 'em rich crowd long enough, ya start to appreciate it, even as ya work to undermine it." He paused for a moment, as if choosing what to and not to say. "Y'all fairly new in this scene. But soon enough, ya'll learn the difference between connections and connection. Like me bein' with Kris is a matter of connections, while me spendin' time with ya or Bellwether is a matter of connection. And I'm sure ya can imagine which is more important than the other."

All the rabbit could do was to nod, her heart heavy with his admission. She excused herself, making a beeline for the stock room, as she felt a mixture of confusion, hurt, and anger from what she had just heard. She had liked Duke the most out of her friends outside the academy because they both understood the challenges of their social standings, but now it felt like she had foolishly believed in a camaraderie that was becoming increasingly difficult to define.

'Or maybe, in some twisted way, we did share a bond.' The doe thought as she glanced at the peacoat hanging on the rack. It was both a reminder of Gareth and (now) another dilemma. Was she still holding onto it, exploiting her situation? Was there any distinction between her choices and her fellow commoner friends?

It was bad enough for her to see friendship and love being exploited in terms of politics. But seeing it in terms of business, especially from her friends, was even worse.

Which was probably why the lapin stayed in the stock room for almost fifteen minutes until Samantha arrived for her evening shift and Duke finally got the hint and left.

'It was easy to send a mammal out of a room, but far more difficult to erase the confusion they left behind.'

Later that night, as she got ready for bed, Judy couldn't shake the feeling that Zootopia was filled with mammals who made choices she just didn't understand. She couldn't help but question what friendship, loyalty, and dignity truly meant. And she couldn't help but feel utterly lost as both her friends seemed willing to exchange their pride and dignity for something that either felt so trivial or (oh so) painfully hollow.

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Chapter Text

14

mischievous otters & foxes

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The long weekend unfolded like a welcome respite. While Judy's parents were hoping she would come visit, the bunny wanted to get her work done and knew the campus would be mostly empty, so it would be a great way for her to not only get some reading done, but also to focus on herself without any distractions.

As the bunny stepped into Mrs. Otterton's music suite for their impromptu meeting, the soft hum of piano scales welcomed her like an old friend. The middle-aged otter sat at the grand piano, her paw pads dancing over the keys with an enthusiasm that made her student smile, even as the doe's thoughts drifted to concerns about the emotional well-being of Priscilla.

"I think it's time we had a little chat about the spring recital," her mentor declared, a glint in her eye that hinted at mischief.

The lapin raised an eyebrow. "I assumed I'd be playing Beethooven." They had been working on the third part of the renown composer's 29th sonata for weeks now.

"Yes, but not just the Adagio Sostenuto — I want you to perform the whole piece, with the orchestra. You'd be the featured performer."

"The entire Hammerklavier?" Judy's breath caught. "But isn't it nearly an hour long in length and. . .almost unaccompanied? I don't think — "

Mrs. Otterton stood, her confidence radiating as she leaned against the piano. "You won't do it if you don't believe in yourself. You can! And you will!"

In that moment, a flicker of determination ignited within the rabbit. She remembered why she had left Bunnyburrow — to challenge herself, to grow, and make her family proud. She wasn't going to let fear stop her now.

"Judith, I've never had a student as gifted as you. I want your performance to be the wonderful coda of the year."

"Okay," she said, flipping through the score, adrenaline mixing with anxiety. "I can do this."

"Excellent! That's the spirit I was looking for," the otter cheered, her smile brightening the room. "I was getting worried about you."

"Why were you worried about me?"

Her teacher's gaze softened. "You just haven't seemed like yourself the last couple of days. I know you have had some difficulty adjusting, but you seemed to finally get your stride."

"Oh," the doe replied. She couldn't think of anything else to say. She had always tried to leave whatever was going on in her personal life behind during her lessons — but clearly, she hadn't done the best job of it.

"I don't mean to pry," her mentor said apologetically. Most of the faculty members at the academy enjoyed the student gossip as much as the entire female population. But Mrs. Otterton was the only teacher who seemed to be looking out for her.

"Uhm, it's fine," the bunny told her. "It's just that my best friend is going through a hard time right now."

"Ah, I see. Well, I hope things will work out soon for them."

The doe could only give a polite nod.

Mrs. Otterton's gentle pat on her back felt like a lifeline. "Well, take care of yourself, dear. And by that, I mean practice as much as you can! This piece is going to be a killer."

Judy was happy for the distraction. Diving into a challenging arrangement would give her something to do besides sit in silence with Priscilla each night. Her best friend would be studying and would have a book in front of her muzzle, but she was pretty sure the sloth wasn't studying. To make matters worse, Nana Tripletoe still insisted they go and have Vera made her a (very expensive) custom fitted dress. The last thing the depressed folivoran needed was a reminder of what had happened — or, in her case, what hadn't happened — with Flash.

The following week became a cycle of school, homework, practice, and work. The pranks and vitriol lessened as students started studying for midterms and the prom committee called meetings 'practically' every evening. The piano became the only bright spot in the bunny's day — a chance to feel like she was achieving something, slowly making her way through Beethooven's intricacies. Neither she nor Priscilla even bothered to attend the mandatory prom orientation meeting where the rundown of activities was discussed, media release forms were handed out, and pre-interviews were scheduled. (Dawn decided to brave the meeting, only to be told the wrong room. Then, when she finally arrived, they 'claimed' they didn't have any more forms for her.)

Surprisingly, this had led the lapin to begin looking forward to going to work more, as it was her only real social interaction during the week. However, Duke didn't come in nearly as much anymore. Being around each other was suddenly very awkward. For the first time since they had met, she felt censored. She couldn't be open around him and tell him what she wanted to say or truly ask. But they both already knew the answer to those questions.

And Judy came to learn (and begrudgingly accept) the unspoken truth of the matter: connections are important. They could elevate you, open doors, and keep you from becoming just another face in the crowd.

'But did that mean sacrificing genuine friendship for social standing?'

Much to the rabbit's dismay, while the weasel stayed away, another presence emerged. Nicholas began making regular appearances during her shifts. She tried to avoid any conversation with him besides inquiries into his beverage selection, her irritation simmering beneath the surface.

"I think that fox has a thing for you," Samantha said one afternoon, motioning to the red fox nursing his coffee in the corner booth.

"Hardly," the doe replied, rolling her eyes. "He despises me. Probably not as much as I detest him."

The younger otter leaned closer, a teasing grin on her face. "My, Judy, we certainly have strong feelings for someone, don't we? Are you sure you detest him, or is it something else?"

"Oh please, Sam. Not you too." The lapin felt her cheeks heat, a mix of frustration and something more confusing swirling inside her.

"I'm just saying," The sow raised her paws in defense. "He only sits down with his coffee when you're here. When you aren't, he leaves."

"Believe me, he's only doing it to punish me."

Judy tried to only focus on her work after that, but the nagging thought lingered as the weight of Nicholas's presence loomed over her like a storm cloud. Then, it turned into a full thunderstorm come another Sunday night when she thought she managed to slip away—he caught up with her outside, flanked by a smaller tan fox with a 'permanent' scowl, as if life had dealt him a series of unfortunate events.

'You and me both, little guy.'

"Car—ehm, Judy, hi!" Nicholas greeted, his voice casual, as if they were old friends. The moment he said her name, though, the fennec perked up, his expression shifting from grumpy to curious as he leaned in slightly, clearly intrigued.

"What Red over here 'meant' to say is that we're heading in your direction—mind if we tag along?" a voice that was gruff and direct came out of the miniature body, leaving the doe in obvious shock.

"Oh, uh, not at all!" The bunny replied absentmindedly, noticing the hint of mischief in the smaller vulpine's eyes as if he was sizing her up.

"Finnick, this is Miss Judith Hopps," the red fox introduced, half-exasperated, half-amused. "Judy, meet Mr. Finnick Lister."

"Call me Finn—most folks do," Finnick said, waving a paw dismissively. "With two Nicks in the family, it just made things much simpler." He shot the taller vulpine a sideways glance, a grin tugging at his lips. "And less confusing whenever some mammal complains who's 'more' annoying between us."

The other todd groaned, his voice almost pleading. "Can we not do this in front of present company, please?"

"What? You don't think Miss Hopps can't handle a little 'friendly' banter?" the fennec shot back, his grumpiness towards Nicholas only adding to his charm.

The doe couldn't help but smile. Their playful exchange felt light and easy—as if she were transported back home, listening to her own siblings bickering.

"That said, I've heard a lot about you," Finnick said, his gaze still sharp but teasing.

"Ha-ha-ho that's unfortunate," she replied, trying to match the tan fox's energy. "I can assure you I'm not 'nearly' as awful as your friend has made me out to be."

The fennec laughed, the sound genuine and rich. "Awful? More like the opposite. He only has nothing but praises to sing," he remarked and muttered something under his breath that the bunny only caught the tail end of. "—fox up so he could stop whining about his 'fluff'."

Nicholas's cheeks flushed, and he fiddled with his tie. "Right, well, I'm afraid that's all on Finn here."

As they strolled down the sidewalk, Judy felt an unexpected warmth in Finnick's straightforwardness. The two of them even swapped stories about campus life and shared experiences of strange professors, even managing to poke fun of the slack-jawed red fox trailing behind them.

"So, what else has Nick had done to continue earning such a Tundratown cold shoulder from you?" the tan vulpine asked, feigning innocence but clearly enjoying the moment.

"Hmn, let me see," the lapin replied, her curiosity piqued. "How much time do you have before you have to leave?"

"Hah!" Finnick tugged on Nicholas's tie, his grin widening. "You really got such a way with the ladies, Wilde." He turned to the rabbit, mock-serious. "Miss Hopps, on behalf of his family, I offer our sincerest apologies for whatever offenses Red here has bestowed upon you."

The smaller fox offered an exaggerated bow, and Judy couldn't suppress a laugh.

"Is this the part where you start listing his worst offenses you've begrudgingly forgiven?" she teased, arching a brow and giving a half-smirk.

A boisterous chuckle erupted from the fennec, filling the air with a contagious energy. "Oh, where do I begin? Let's see—there was that time he dismissed my knowledge about car repairs right before a big race I was prepping for. Spoiler alert: it nearly cost me the championship, but we talked it out, and in the end, his buddy Flash helped me make the necessary tweaks just in time."

The doe raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "And how did you get back at him for that?"

Finnick shrugged, his grin still in place. "Oh, I just made sure to remind him of his 'expertise' every chance I got. It's all in good fun, right Nick?"

"One hundred percent." the todd grumbled, rolling his eyes.

They passed a group of girls from the lapin's dorm, each carrying large garment bags, and the reality of prom season hit her like a ton of bricks. "Wow, I almost forgot it's prom season!" The tan fox shook his head in exaggerated disbelief. "Are you suffering from pre-prom pandemonium?"

"Absolutely not," Judy replied, her voice steadier than she felt. But the thought of Priscilla alone in their dorm gnawed at her. Her best friend had been sinking deeper into sadness, and she couldn't shake the worry.

"Good for you! Even some of Nick's friends seem to have lost their minds. You had to talk one friend out of going with some real character, didn't you?" the fennec's tone was teasing, but a flicker of seriousness shone in his eyes as he glanced back at the red fox.

Nicholas's expression changed immediately as he opened his mouth to say something, then closed it, clearly uneasy.

The bunny felt her blood begin to boil. She had assumed it was Beatrix who was keeping Flash away from Priscilla. But it was Nicholas.

'Of course it had to be him.'

"What's this?" she asked, her voice edged with accusation.

Nicholas brushed it away. "Nothing, it's nothing."

To him, it was nothing. But to Priscilla, it was everything.

She was about to launch into a heated retort when Finnick remarked abruptly, "Oh shoot! I have to fetch Jack." The tan fox glanced at his watch, breaking the tension with his sudden announcement.

"Wasn't Kevin supposed to pick them up?" Nicholas interjected, a flash of genuine concern crossing his flustered features.

"Yeah, well, the limo wasn't available, so my van is the next best thing." the fennec's demeanor shifted back to grumpy but still warm as he turned to Judy. "Miss Hopps, a pleasure." He shook her paw firmly, his grip surprisingly gentle, before giving the taller vulpine a pointed look. "Don't be an imbecile. Good families are a dime a dozen, but a good mammal is rare."

As Finnick strode off, the bunny turned back to the red fox, surprised he was still lingering. "Is there something I can help you with?"

He shook his head, his gaze drifting to the ground. "No, I just thought I'd walk you the rest of the way."

"Again, your concern for my well-being is so touching." Her tone dripped with sarcasm, but an underlying question lingered in her voice—a hint of curiosity about his intentions.

Nicholas replied with silence, his expression unreadable.

"How's Mr. Slothmore?" she asked, trying to lighten the mood.

The todd's voice was clipped when he replied. "Flash's fine. He's been really busy."

"Hmn, so I heard" She balled her fists tightly, frustration creeping in. "Anyway, I work Monday, Tuesday, and Friday nights—sometimes even Sunday afternoons."

He stared at her, the weight of her words hanging between them.

"We seem to be 'running' into each other a lot lately," she said, air quoting to emphasize her point. "I thought you'd like to know my hours. . .so you can avoid them, of course."

Nicholas nodded abruptly, then turned away, his hesitation clear in the way he lingered just a moment longer than necessary.

But Judy didn't overthink it — she just expected never to see him in The Big Donut again.

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