Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Chapter One

Roark was practically buzzing. He’d finally be able to play in a band- for Mitzi and Atlas! The only two cats who actually took a moment to talk to him when no one else would. And now, he’s being toured around the place he’d be performing- Lackadaisy. It was beautiful, in his eyes and many others.

“..u’ll meet some others soon, but for now, meet JJ, Walter, Sy, Ben, and Mozzie.” Rocky tuned back into what the male tabby, Zib, beside him was saying, looking at him with curious eyes, “They’re your band members, so play nice with them.”

He looked at the band members, who were tidying up the stage. They stopped and seemed pleased to have another member of the band, with Walter stepping up to shake Rocky’s paw.

“Nice to meet you..” The male trailed off, tilting his head.

Rocky perked, stumbling over his words, “Roark-- Roark! My name is Roark, however you can just use Rocky.”

Walter nodded, patting Rocky on the back. Sy and JJ joined them, also taking interest in the grey tomcat. Rocky didn’t entirely mind the onslaught of questions they were asking him, he was just glad to have new friends.

He answered every question to the best of his ability, laughing at some of the remarks his bandmates would make. He could see Zib eyeing him out of the corner of his eye and when he turned to look at the man, he only smiled fondly.

“You fit right in.” Zib chuckled, causing Rocky to beam with happiness and pride.

As the band conversed with their new member, Atlas and Mitzi sat watching the entire interaction with fond gazes.

“He’s a good kid.” Mitzi said, leaning against her husband and interlocking their tails. “Plays beautifully too.”

Atlas hummed in agreement, “I agree, however I do think there’s something different about him. Something..special.”

Mitzi looked up at him and then back towards where Rocky was, the grey feline laughing as Walter and JJ crowded him- the other band members simply laughing along.

The woman’s gaze seemed to harden slightly, “Now don’t you do what I think you’re goin to do with him. I brought him here for the band, not to be..be one of your lackeys.”

“Of course not,” Atlas assured, dipping his head down to place a calming kiss upon her head, “I wouldn’t go against my beloved's desire. However..you must see what I see. That laugh, the look in his eye..”

“I do..but do not corrupt him.” Mitzi whispered.

“Corrupt who?”

The pair turned and found a tuxedo cat, one with green eyes. “Mordecai.” Mitzi greeted, her gaze soft.

“Where is Viktor?” Atlas asked, staring at the tuxedo cat with curious eyes and a slight smile.

Mordecai answered simply, “He is unloading our recent batch of “liquid gold”. However, I’m sure you’ve heard of the Act that is trying to be passed?”

Atlas’ smile fell and his gaze hardened, “I have, yes. We’ll make do..we always do.”

“We’ll have to tread more carefully.” Mordecai added.

“Avoid the snake's head.”

“Indeed.”

The two shared a knowing glance. Tensions were high. The ban on alcohol would either ruin Lackadaisy or cause turbulence. It would set a time limit on their time together. Neither of them were fond of that idea.

Mitzi’s grip met Atlas’ paw, squeezing gently in reassurance. Atlas hummed, bumping his forehead with hers. “I will go help Viktor.” The man said then he moved towards the back door.

“I have to get ready for tonight.” Mitzi smiled warmly at Mordecai, hesitating to place a warm paw upon his arm. When Mordecai leaned forward slightly, she placed her paw on him and patted his arm, “It’s always great to see you. Do not worry, we’ll pull through.”

Mordecai nodded, “I have no doubts.”

The she-cat smiled and walked off, back towards the secret entrance. Mordecai glanced around, his eyes landing upon the stage where the band was. He watched as they chatted in their little circle, seemingly excited about something.

Mordecai didn’t know what they were surrounding until Zib moved out of the circle and walked to grab his saxophone. There in the middle of the circle was a grey tomcat with a cream underbelly. He was being examined and talked to by the band, all of them seemingly getting along quite nicely. Mordecai watched as Walter placed a hand upon the tomcat, who looked at him and smiled. And then, he looked over and the two locked eyes.

Mordecai felt a shift in his mind, but then it felt as if his mind wasn’t there. Warmth enveloped his face and his ears instinctively flattened against his head out of fear- or was it embarrassment? His tail curled, yet the tip of it swayed slightly.

The tomcats' eyes were so intense, not because of their color, but just in general. His eyes, god, they were an incredible shade of blue. Mordecai felt his heart speed up, was he having a heart attack? If so, why? He was perfectly healthy. The tomcat took a step towards the edge of the stage and Mordecai stepped back. Even though they were a good distance away- Mordecai standing near the back door- Mordecai couldn’t help but move back.

The tomcat tilted his head, his ear flicking for a moment. Mordecai saw the way his nose twitched, nostrils flaring. He was trying to get a hold of his scent. How in tune was this bastard with his instincts?

And yet, Mordecai caught his own nose twitching. He quickly put a stop to that. He wouldn’t want the cat to think he was interested in him, curious about him.

Mordecai’s gaze hardened and he moved backwards, turning and walking out the back door. He wouldn’t let that cat control him.

Meanwhile, Rocky felt a tug on his heart as he watched the charming tuxedo cat leave the room. His body relaxed and he blinked slowly, his tail curling upwards. WHO was that? Who was the cat he just developed a CRUEL crush on?

The way he mimicked his body behavior, the sudden glare..He was mysterious. And Rocky loved mysteries.

“I know that look,” Rocky startled when Zib came up next to him, “keep away from that one. He’s dangerous.”

Mysterious AND dangerous? It was almost like Zib was feeding his delusions.

“Who was he?” Rocky asked, still staring at the spot where that dashing gentleman once stood.

Zib deadpanned and sighed, “Rocky..stay away from him.”

Rocky finally broke his gaze away from the spot and looked at Zib, his ears lowering slightly. He hated this feeling- phantom rejection. He had had crushes before, on men and women, but they never worked out. Mainly with men, because they were always weirded out by his affections. He never understood why, until his aunt told him to ‘keep it a secret in order to stay safe’.

“Whats going on?” Walter asked, curious as he walked up to stand on Zib’s left.

JJ walked up and stood on Rocky’s right, “Rocky’s got a small crush on Mordecai.”

“Mordecai?” Rocky asked, whispering his name like a prayer, “What a name..”

Walter simply grinned, “Young love..I think? How old are you?”

“20.” Rocky answered simply, then paused and his ears perked, “Oh, my birthday is next week.”

Zib sighed, his ears drooping and tail lashing back and forth. He’d have a talk with Mordecai, tell him to stay away from Rocky who Zib was quickly seeing as a little brother.

Chapter Text

It had been two days since Rocky last saw Mordecai and he had promised to keep away (because Zob wouldn’t stop stressing) but there was this pull towards the tuxedo cat that he hadn’t felt before.

He wondered how Mordecai was, what he was doing, where he was. He wondered why the cat was so “dangerous” and why people only whispered his name instead of saying it proudly.

He was sitting at the bar, watching as a lovely lady, who he came to know as Ivy Pepper, was talking the ear off a orange, bulky cat named Viktor.

“Stop scaring off my dates!” Ivy shouted, clearly exasperated by the others' attempts to thwart Ivy’s dates.

“Viktor does not know vhat you speak of.” Viktor replied, cleaning a shot glass. “I do not scare anyone off. Right, boy?”

Rocky looked at Ivy and then Viktor, he wasn’t sure who to side with. They were both scary in their own ways. “I’m smart enough to keep out of that trash fire!” Rocky grinned, ears laying down.

“Incredibly wise.” Ivy said with her eyes narrowed, then she turned back to Viktor, “Don’t bring any more bystanders into this!”

“Vhat?”

“I said don’t bring anymore bystanders into this!”

“Sorry can’t hear you. Too busy, er, viping down glass.” Viktor retorted, causing Ivy to groan and cover her face.

Rocky flinched when someone touched his shoulder, looking over at Atlas who seemed curious, “What are you both going on about?”

“Viktor keeps scaring away my dates!”

“I do no such thing!” Viktor exclaimed, clearly enjoying how annoyed Ivy was getting.

Atlas chuckled, moving to stroke Ivy’s hair, “You’ll be alright. Maybe if you stopped bringing them here..”

Ivy swatted at his hand, “God forbid I want my dates to meet my friends and family!”

The three men chuckled, meanwhile Ivy crossed her arms and huffed defiantly. Rocky moved to sip at the water Viktor gave him.

“Atlas.” A voice spoke- a new voice.

Rocky’s ears stood on end and he turned to look at who was beside him. Mordecai.

He’s never felt so self conscious and more socially aware in his LIFE. Instantly, he glanced over at the glass he was holding, making sure mentally he looked alright. He fixed his tie and smoothed out his suit, avoiding eye contact whilst doing so.

“Yes, Mordecai?” Atlas turned and greeted Mordecai with a smile. “I’m sure you’ve met Roark?”

“Rocky, sir.”

“Rocky!” Atlas fixed himself and Rocky finally managed to look at Mordecai.

The tuxedo cat was staring at him, causing Rocky’s ears to lower and heart to leap and bounce away. God, he was beautiful.

“I haven’t, actually.” Mordecai spoke, looking Rocky up and down. Rocky’s nose twitched and he caught a whiff of Mordecai’s scent. Dark oak..with a hint of tea?

Was this man perfect or was he dreaming?

Rocky extended a hand, “Well, now you have. I’m Roark!” Mordecai looked at his hand and then back up at him, “But please, Rocky is just fine!”

Mordecai’s ears were pinned back as he spoke, “Why?”

Rocky blinked, his hand lowering slightly, “What?”

“Why do you want people to refer to you as..Rocky?” Mordecai questioned, confused.

Rocky Lowered his hand entirely, “Well..it’s what my mother called me. I don’t remember why.”

Mordecai hummed, “Well then, Rocky, I’m..charmed.” He sure didn’t seem like it, but then again he always looked angry.

Rocky could see his nose twitched and his gaze hardened more, if that was even possible. When Mordecai turned away to face Atlas, Rocky sniffed his hand and under his arm to make sure he didn’t smell bad.

He smelt like his usual smell, which he rarely got negative remarks about.

“Atlas, sir, we just got some new drinks. Viktor is hauling them inside now, shall I bring them in for you to try or am I welcome to go to the office?” Mordecai asked.

“Leaving so soon?” Atlas asked, a small teasing smile on his face. “The party hasn’t even started- surely, you’d like to stay for a good hour?”

“I’m not fond of parties..especially after what your wife did to me last time.” Mordecai glared at Mitzi who giggled behind a gloved paw.

“What on earth did you do last time?” Atlas asked, looking at his love who kept giggling.

Mitzi couldn’t stop her giggles as she said, “I made him dance with a girl.”

“He dances?” Rocky questioned, ears perking in interest.

“No. I do not.” Mordecai quickly corrected him, his ears pinned back, “I looked like a fool! Just standing there while that poor woman danced around me.”

At that Atlas and Mitzi erupted into laughter, Viktor trying to hide his own with a cough. Meanwhile, Ivy was in tears, stifling her laughter behind her hands. Rocky couldn’t help but chuckle, letting his amusement be known as well.

Mordecai looked at him as he chuckled and Rocky could’ve sworn his lips nearly twitched into a smile. But his frown hardened instead.

“Laugh it up, you’re just giving me more reasons to waltz upstairs and hide.” Mordecai sneered.

Rocky spoke before his mind could stop him, “I don’t think you’ll be waltzing no time soon.”

The laughter that erupted from the others surrounding them was so loud it scared Rocky for a moment. All the while, Mordecai just stood there with wide eyes and a slightly open mouth.

Mordecai let out a displeased sound, then a mocking laugh, “Very funny, Roark.”

He knew that Mordecai wasn’t exactly happy with him, but the use of his first name from him? God, Rocky nearly melted.

“Please, stay. You can hear your new friend play.” Atlas joked, coaxing Rocky out of his seat and towards Mordecai. “He plays violin very well.”

Mordecai moved back, grimacing when Rocky got closer to him. He seemed like he was going to reject the idea entirely, but he sighed instead.

“I suppose I could stay for a while. However, this doesn’t make us friends.” Mordecai’s words went into one ear and out the other, Rocky was nervous now. He’d have to impress Mordecai.

“Rocky.” Zib came up to stand with the group, eyeing Mordecai for a moment then placing a paw upon Rocky’s shoulder, “C’mon, we gotta warm up. And..I need to talk to you about something.”

Rocky nodded, but was hesitant to leave. He could feel Mordecai’s gaze on him, and he glanced at him for a moment. Before he could say anything, Zib was practically dragging Him by his tie towards the storage room.

When they were alone, Zib smacked his head. “What did I tell you about staying away from him?”

“Not my fault!” Rocky exclaimed, covering his head when Zib continued his reign of attacks, “Not my fault! He came up to me! Not even me- to Atlas!”

“Are you trying to kill me?”

“No, I’m not! Please stop smacking me!” Rocky wailed, managing to catch Zib’s wrist, “He didn’t come to chat to me, he needed to talk to Atlas!”

Zib sighed, letting his arm fall when Rocky let go. He waited and when Rocky didn’t move nor say anything, he gestured for the tomcat to explain himself.

“I was listening to Miss Pepper and Viktor talk and Atlas came up and they started teasing and I was just sitting there. And then I hear a voice, a new..beautifully monotone voice..and I look over and he’s standing there! Menacingly! I’ve never been so aware of every movement I made in my life!” Rocky allowed his thoughts to spill out of his throat and over his lips, fixing his tie, “And Atlas was the one who introduced us and he asked me questions and I had to answer! Then he spoke about an embarrassing story and I poked fun at him and he nearly smiled-”

“He what?”

“- And then you came along and, Zib, I feel like a dud! I must’ve looked stupid, standing there with an outstretched hand! He didn’t even shake it! Do I smell bad, by any chance? He seemed repulsed by me.”

“Slow down, Rock,” Zib sighed, grabbing his shoulders and steadying him, “Breathe. I get it, I understand it wasn’t your fault. You said, he nearly smiled?”

Rocky nodded, “Yeah, I saw his lips twitch.”

Zib sighed, bargaining, “He could’ve been..trying to scowl. He almost never smiles, so I doubt it was a smile.” Still, he couldn’t shake the idea Mordecai was going to smile- or show any emotion other than anger and disgust. “Mordecai is..easily disgusted, yes.”

“So, I smell bad?” Rocky frowned, sniffing himself, “I showered this morning though.”

Zib shook his head, “No, no you don’t smell bad. What I’m saying is that, well, Mordecai is a very picky and particular fellow. He isn’t trusting either.”

Rocky’s ears lowered and he ran a hand through his hair, which fell back over his forehead effortlessly, “What do I do? I’m starting to think how I feel is wrong.”

Zib blinked and he could’ve sworn he saw his younger self in front of him- heartbroken and rejected by a man he truly trusted and loved. It caused something to stir inside him and he sighed, “Don’t say that. You are allowed to love who you want, I just..” He trailed off, how could he put this without sounding like a disapproving father? “I wish it was someone else you felt this way for. Mordecai, he isn’t like everyone else in this god forsaken speakeasy. He will be difficult and untrusting and I don’t want you to get your heart practically curb stomped by him.”

He reached out, fixing Rocky’s shirt and tie, tying it for him once more. “I know I sound like a dad here, but I do care about you. You’re just a kid, I don’t want you not giving love a chance if he rejects you.”

“I’m 20, 21 in a couple days.”

“And? I’m still older than you.” Zib retorted, his eyes flickering with amusement and playfulness when the grey tomcat swatted at his hand, “Easy there, tiger, just helping you out.”

“You’re older by 7 years!” Rocky laughed, allowing himself to be pulled into Zib, who led him back out, “So don’t use the older card on me when you’re still in your twenties!”

Zib closed the door behind them, coaxing Rocky just a bit ahead of him, “Just because I’m in the same age range as you doesn’t mean I can’t play the ‘I’m Older’ card on you.”

Mordecai watched as the grey tomcat, Rocky, and Zib walked out of a closet, laughing. He couldn’t exactly hear what they were saying, but what he did notice was Zib's hand on the small of Rocky’s back. He didn’t understand why he got so unnerved by the sight, yes he was accustomed to couples being touchy, but this was different. Not because it was two men, no he’s gotten used to the idea ever since he had the misfortune of listening to Zib recount a story about him and another band member. It was because such a small, one could say intimate gesture was towards Rocky. It made his ears pin back, his tail lash back and forth, and the fur on his neck to stand on end. He had to suppress a low hiss that threatened to come out.

“Mordecai,” Atlas spoke, wringing Mordecai out of his angry haze, “are you alright? You look like you’re about to cut a certain band member's throat.”

“I’m perfectly fine.” Mordecai defended, smoothing his suit out. He forced his tail to still, though the tip still lashed about.

Atlas hummed, “Zib is too old for Rocky. They have a familial bond.”

“Why are you telling me this?” Mordecai asked, glancing at his boss. Atlas just chuckled, patted his shoulder, and went back to talking to his wife and the others. The tuxedo cat went back and thought about what Atlas had said. A familial bond. He didn’t exactly like how that factor made him relax, he didn’t appreciate how it made his chest be consumed by hope. Hope was a dangerous thing, with hope one would do desperate things.

He had a seldom feeling he knew what he was experiencing and he wanted it to stop immediately. It’d interfere with his work, with continuing his goal of helping the man who practically saved him that night.

No.

He’d stop this feeling from growing.

Even if he had to crush his own heart to do so.

Chapter Text

Rocky tuned his violin, listening to the others practice just ten minutes before they were going on stage. He felt nervous, which was new. Usually, he wouldn’t feel nervous about going on stage and playing his heart out, however he had a perfectly good reason to be nervous. Mordecai was going to be out there in the crowd. Somewhere in the many dancing faces, Mordecai would be there. Watching him, and if not, then listening to him play his songs. He was terrified and yet exhilarated.

He’d do his best, no he would do great. He had to impress him, maybe then he’d like him. At best, tolerate him. Just thinking about it made his tail curl and his smile widened. He could see it, him up on stage, playing his heart out. Then he’d look out into the crowd, Mordecai and he would lock eyes like they usually do. Then, mordecai would get closer to the stage and Rocky would kneel down ever so slightly..

“Rocky, quit daydreaming, we have to get out there.” Zib scolded lightly, snapping Rocky out of his head, “You’re going to do great. Just like you did last night.”

Rocky nodded and followed the rest of the crew onto the stage. His shaky hands quickly sobered up at the good bit of faces, standing by and waiting for the music in order to start dancing. They were chatting, all of them smiling and laughing. Rocky quickly scanned the entire room, Mordecai wasn’t here yet. He noticed Miss Pepper had a new escort and was sitting at the bar with Viktor and Sable. Viktor was glaring daggers at Ivy’s date while quickly refilling Sable’s drink. Rocky couldn’t help but laugh quietly to himself, he could tell that Ivy’s date was shitting bricks.

Rocky got into position, his heart drumming in his chest as the crowd quietened. He could feel the nervousness coursing through his being, the way his claws retracted in order to protect his precious violin. His ears perked when he heard a door open, his eyes landing on the man he was waiting for.

The man was beautiful, clearly dressed to impress. The black suit and tie he wore seemed to be new and his shoes were shining in the light. His glasses glinted as he and Rocky made eye contact and Rocky noticed Mordecai’s hair was slicked back.

Rocky nearly missed his cue.

He snapped back into his senses as Mozzie’s piano echoed through the speakeasy, immediately joining in with the others to create a beautiful, electrifying symphony. Within seconds, tomcats and queens were on the dance floor- swinging their hearts out. The sight was mesmerizing, seeing different felines connect through a creation of his being. Of his passion.

To be brought together by the rhythm of love.

How enticing, how intense! Rocky moved in tune with his instrument, smiling all the while. Zib came up on his right, leaning into him slightly. Rocky steadied him with his own weight, the two tomcats supporting each other as they played their instruments passionately. Zib righted himself, opening his mouth to sing.

“In the speakeasy glow, where the shadows play,
Dapper gents in their bow ties, ladies dressed in ballet,
The jazz band’s swingin’, got us feelin’ so alive,
With a shimmy and a shake, oh, the night will surely thrive.”

Rocky strummed his violin, the sound louder than the rest- just as they had practiced. The following songs would highlight Rocky’s ability, show the crowd could trust him. He’d be able to prove he could play skillfully and appease their desires. A few stopped and looked at him in delight, many only getting more excited as the beautiful tune caught their ears. A few girls swooned over Zib’s voice and Rocky couldn’t blame them, he certainly had pipes. But he did too and he joined in Zib’s song for the chorus.

“So let’s sway, sway, sway, under the stars so bright,
With that moonlight on the dancefloor, everything feels right,
Twirl ‘round, darling, let’s take it nice and slow,
In our lives, where the good times always flow.”

The band got livelier, as did the dance floor. Zib and Rocky stayed near one another, not only for lyrical and instrumental support, but mental. This entire thing was stimulating for Rocky, it was what he always wanted. To be on stage in front of a crowd, dancing and clapping along to his music.

Rocky looked over, finding Mordecai at the bar now. Miss Pepper and her date scurrying towards the dance floor, meanwhile Atlas and Mitzi sat near Mordecai. He could see mitzi clapping along, smiling all the while. His gaze met Mordecai’s, not surprised the cat was already looking at him. He offered Mordecai a smile, not faltering even when Mordecai narrowed his eyes.

“A cigarette in hand, we’re livin’ it up grand,
Footsteps on the hardwood, we’re the talk of the land,
With a wink and a smile, let the dampness of the night
Wrap us in a romance, where the world feels so light.”

Zib’s voice caused Rocky to look at him, his smile only widening as he strummed his violin some more. He was feeling the music, allowing it to envelope him- control him. Zib’s shocked gaze went unnoticed by Rocky, who played more passionately and went off the sheets in a delightful way.

“The saxophone wails, and the trumpet answers back,
Rhythms in my heart, got me lost in the track,
With every beat that echoes, I could dance ‘til dawn,
In this jazzy paradise, love’s our only song.”

Zib continued his song, quickly matching Rocky’s change in energy and tempo, the tomcat was really putting the swing in swing music. The band didn’t struggle to match the other two, quickly adapting and even laughing in delight. J.J let out a loud call, the crowd repeating it as they danced. The band, now as one, sang:

“So take my hand, sweetheart, we’ll glide like a dream,
In this roaring night, nothing’s ever as it seems,
The laughter and the chatter, the clinking of the glass,
With each step we’re creating memories that last.

So let’s sway, sway, sway, under the stars so bright,
With that moonlight on the dancefloor, everything feels right,
Twirl me ‘round, darling, let’s take it nice and slow,
In this 1920s vibe, where the good times always flow.

So when the night is ending, and the lights start to fade,
Know we danced through the ages, our love will never jade,
With a kiss and a promise, as the last note plays,
We’ll carry this swingin’ spirit for the rest of our days..”

The song ended and the felines below let out loud whoops as they clapped and ended their dances. Rocky breathed heavily, laughing when Zib swung an arm over his shoulders.

“That was an unexpected change of pace, kid!” He laughed, ruffling Rocky’s hair.

Walter scuffled over, grinning, “A welcome one! That was thrilling!”

Rocky only smiled, then cleared his throat, “How about another?”

“You don’t need to persuade, kid.” Zib chuckled, nodding at Mozzie who began to play once more.

For another few hours, they played and sang their songs. The patrons loved them, some singing along to the songs they knew as they danced. Little by little, the guests left and Rocky descended the stage, laughing along with his band members. They were smiling and lively, still energized from the wonderful time they had just spent together.

“Rocky,” Ivy breathed heavily as she scampered up towards him, “that was amazing! I’ve never had such fun dancing before!”

Rocky smiled, allowing Ivy to hook her arm around his. He walked towards the bar, sitting down beside Mordecai, who glanced at him. “You did wonderful, honey.” Mitzi praised, patting Rocky gently on the shoulder, “You didn’t get so energized last night, what changed?”

“I don’t know,” Rocky lied, scratching the back of his head, “I just really wanted to impress you guys.”

Atlas smiled, moving just a bit closer to his wife, “You have a gift.” Ivy skipped off, Rocky didn’t know where.

Rocky felt a warmth envelope him at Atlas’ words and he grinned wider, showing off his canines. He could see Viktor move towards some shot glasses and he placed them in front of them all. “Vhat do you suggest?”

Sable spoke, “Bourbon, really get us going.”

Viktor nodded and grasped a bottle of bourbon, uncorking it and spilling the liquid into the shot glasses evenly. While the others downed their shot, Rocky just stared at his.

Viktor cocked a brow, “Vhat is it? You don’t like bourbon?”

Rocky cleared his throat, sliding the shot glass towards Zib who had joined them. The tomcat took it eagerly. “It’s not that I don’t like bourbon, I’m just not a big drinker.”

“Just like Mordecai, speakin nonsense.” Viktor grumbled, pouring another shot for Zib.

Sable looked at Rocky, “You don’t drink? That’s almost hard to believe.”

“How is that so hard to believe?” Rocky asked, curious and, slightly, offended. He didn’t look like someone who drank, or he thought he didn’t. He was having second thoughts now.

Sable contemplated his words, then cleared his throat, “It’s just..you act like someone who drinks.” The sophisticated tomcat jerked when someone (Mitzi) kicked his shin, “Ow!”

“What do you mean?” Rocky asked, deflating slightly.

Zib stood closer to Rocky now, his ears darting backwards quickly. Sable looked at Zib, Rocky, then to Mitzi who sighed. “What he meant was you’re very..energetic. That isn’t a bad thing, I’m sure he meant when you were on stage.”

Sable nodded, folding his ears back in a panicked state, “Yes, yes! That’s what I meant. When you were on stage, you were so animated and lively.”

Rocky nodded slowly, looking at Zib who gave him a reassuring glance. He turned when he heard a familiar voice behind him.

“Extremely lively.” Mordecai mumbled, making Rocky turn to look at him, “Almost too lively.”

Zib didn’t stop the low hiss that came from his throat, glaring at Mordecai. Was he unnerved by him? Yes. Was he somewhat scared of him? Absolutely. But the protective nature towards Rocky overrode those fears and the unease. Rocky looked at Zib, then back at Mordecai who was staring at Zib instead of him. The room fell silent, the tension so thick you couldn’t even cut through it.

Thankfully, Ivy bounded back over with her date, who shrunk back at the sight of Viktor. “Rocky, I want you to meet Oisín!” Oisín simply grinned and waved, his fur a brown color with a dark underbelly.

“Oisín? That’s an Irish name.” Rocky noted aloud, turning in his seat, “Are you Irish?”

Oisín, bless him, nodded and seemed to relax. “Yes, I am! You are too, yes?”

Rocky nodded, “Yes! Begorrah, it’s been so long since I’ve been near a fellow Irishman, apart from my cousin and aunt.”

Oisín chuckled, opening his arms. Rocky didn’t hesitate, getting off his seat and enveloping Oisín in a hug.

“Do you come directly from Ireland or were you born here?”

“Directly. I was only six when my parents moved us down here.”

“That’s amazing! I was born and raised in the states, but I still have a mild accent.”

“From the moment you spoke I knew you were an Irishman!”

“That’s the best thing anyone could ever say to me.” Rocky laughed, pulling away and looking at the male feline with bright blue eyes, “Do you know any folk songs?”

Oisín nodded, “A few. Why?”

Rocky laughed, “Why do you think?”

Oisín grinned, “When do you want to get together?”

As the two Irishmen conversed, the others watched in silence and smiles, focusing back on their shots. Mordecai, however, watched in annoyance. He knew why, deep down he hated that the tomcat was talking to someone else. He wanted Rocky to talk to him. This realization only made Mordecai shove those feelings deeper into his subconscious mind.

He also hated how beautifully the tomcat sounded, both with his vocal cords and when playing his violin. He couldn’t stop staring at him, he nearly fell off his bar stool when Rocky began to sing. He sounded divine, like a heavenly choir. The way he got so passionate and let the music consume him, it was like Mordecai was entranced.

He had bewitched him entirely.

“Stop scaring Oisín!” Ivy exclaimed, gesturing to the way the brown cat hid behind Rocky.

“Am not doing anything!” Viktor shouted, The shot glass in his paw breaking. “Look vhat you made me do.”

Ivy rolled her eyes, “I didn’t make you do nothin. Oisín is my friend! He isn’t…yknow.”

They all looked at each other. “Isn’t what, sweetheart?” Mitzi urged, curious.

“He..he’s as attracted to women as you are, ma’am.” Ivy sighed, and it clicked.

“Oh, so he’s vike a gal pal.” Viktor mumbled and Ivy nodded, Oisín lowering his gaze bashfully.

”So don't kill him.” Ivy added, glaring at Viktor who crossed his heart. Mordecai huffed, turning to look at Rocky and Oisín once more, only to find them missing. The grey tomcat had grasped Oisín arm and was leading him away from the group, chatting animatedly.

Mordecai disliked that.

Mordecai is suddenly realizing he’s being possessive over something that is not his.

It was pathetic, really. Thinking he could feel this way over someone who was not his, who couldn’t be his, who he wouldn’t allow to be his. It was his own choice to reject the tomcat subtly, but still his own feelings towards him were festering and becoming more prominent at the second. He forced his ears upwards, not allowing his discontent be known. He despised this feeling, he hated how distracted he was. All over a tomcat he barely knew.

“If I may be excused,” Mordecai began, standing from his seat, “I have to get home.”

Atlas nodded, waving him off. Mordecai walked out of the room and building, concealing his emotions. Once he was outside, he cursed himself and caught the next bus home. Which was a small apartment, one he took very good care of- even if he came and went through the window. He skillfully entered the apartment, shutting the window behind him and sighing deeply. He had to collect his thoughts, get himself together. A shower, then some tea.

Chapter Text

Rocky laughed, patting Oisín on the back when the brown cat shot milk through his nose. “Calm down! I know my stories are funny, but please! I need you alive.”

The two tomcats had been spending a lot of time together, bonding over their Irish heritage and listening to one another's stories. They had quickly become best friends, the two often never seen apart. Sometimes, Oisín and Rocky would just sit in silence, pondering. They were content with each other’s presence, and nobody could blame them for getting so attached to each other. They were all they had in a sense. Or well, Rocky was the only Irish man Oisín had met in St. Louis. He didn’t exactly want to lose him.

And he knew Rocky didn’t want to lose him either.

“Now, boys, don’t make such a mess! You’ll scare off the customers.” Mitzi sighed, grabbing a rag and wiping off the table where the milk was.

Rocky quickly took the rag from her, “I’ll do it, Miss M, don’t worry about it! It was my fault anyway.”

As Rocky cleaned up the mess, Oisín kept chuckling, attempting to catch his breath. Then the brown cat leaned onto Rocky, who instinctively moved to grab him to keep him steady. “Careful, you’re gonna topple over.” Rocky stifled a laugh, still cleaning the milk up off the table.

“Rocky.”

The grey tomcat turned, looking at Mordecai who just narrowed his eyes. Rocky’s ears flushed and dropped slightly. He was beautiful. “Yes, ole serious face?”

Mordecai seemed puzzled, then he sighed, “Don’t call me that.”

“Why not?” Rocky pouted playfully, feeling Oisín swat at his tail, which had fluffed up and was slowly wagging side to side.

“Because it is entirely unprofessional.” Mordecai retorted, then he looked at Oisín who looked back, “I hope I am not interrupting something important?”

Rocky blinked, confused until he followed the tuxedo cat's gaze to where his arm was around Oisín. He pulled away, Oisín getting a mouthful of Rocky’s tail when he stood quickly. “Not at all! I was just telling stories to Oisín, he laughed so hard milk shot out of his nose!”

Mordecai stepped away, his ears pinned back, “Right. Either way, Atlas was looking for you.”

Rocky perked, “Really? Why?” Mordecai shrugged and Rocky nodded, looking at Oisín who smiled reassuringly. “Can you take me to him?”

Mordecai nodded and turned, walking off. Rocky was quick to follow, but the butterflies in his stomach were soaring. He was finally alone with Mordecai. Zib would kill him. Maybe. He didn’t have to know.

“You and Oisín have been getting along well.” Mordecai said suddenly, catching Rocky off guard. “Really well.”

Rocky nodded, “He’s very funny. Sweet too! Awfully shy, though there’s nothing wrong with that.” As Rocky spoke, he didn’t see Mordecai’s ears lower slowly, “Oisín has definitely become one of my favorite people.”

Mordecai took a second before responding, “Didn’t think you were one to pick favorites.” Rocky nearly tripped and grabbed onto Mordecai’s sleeve for support, only to have it torn out of his grasp. “Refrain from touching me.”

Rocky nodded, “Sorry, I didn’t know.”

Mordecai’s gaze didn’t soften, in fact it hardened. He didn’t respond to Rocky, opting instead to lead Rocky up the stairs. The grey tomcat felt his chest grow heavy, but nonetheless he smiled and spoke once more, “I usually don’t have favorites! Only one I can think of is my cousin.”

Mordecai relaxed slightly, humming in response, “Not your siblings?”

“I don’t have siblings.” Rocky answered, following Mordecai up the stairs and to the left, “What about you?”

To his surprise, Mordecai answered, “I have two sisters. Younger.”

“Two sisters? I can only imagine how that went.” Rocky chuckled, amused by the idea of Mordecai having two sisters.

“It was very eventful. Never a boring day with them around.” He could hear the smile in Mordecai’s voice, but when he moved beside him, it left just before he could see it.

Mordecai cleared his throat, coming to a stop at a door, “We have arrived.”

Rocky looked at the door, then Mordecai. Then he reached up and knocked on the door, hearing a muffled “come in” from the otherside. He entered and looked around, taking in the exquisite decor and paintings. “You wanted to see me, sir?”

His eyes fell upon the grey furred feline who sat at his desk, his hands folded on the polished wood. “I did.” Is all he said. Rocky stood there, then moved closer, glancing at a nearby chair. Atlas nodded and Rocky grabbed the chair, pulling it up and sitting in front of the desk.

It didn’t take long for Rocky to start worrying, “Have I done something wrong, sir? If I have, I am sorry, I’ll make it better!” He was about to speak more, but quieted when Atlas raised a hand.

“You are not in trouble, Rocky, quite the opposite.” Atlas assured, his posture relaxing and unhands unfolding, “I simply have something for you.”

“You..have something for me?”

“That’s what I said, yes?” Atlas reached down, opened a drawer and pulled out a rectangular box with a ribbon tied around it, “Mitzi told me how she saw it in one of our friends' stores, the one on Jury Lane.”

“The street with very expensive things that absolutely NO ONE can even afford?” Rocky asked, mildly annoyed at the sudden mention of the street.

Atlas chuckled, a deep and regal sound, “Correct, however said friend owed us. Now, Mitzi didn’t buy it up front, she asked me first.” He handed the box to Rocky, “She and I both thought it was fitting for you to have a birthday gift..even if it is early.”

Rocky looked at the box, it had been a while since he received a gift from anyone but his cousin. Slowly, tentatively, he untied the ribbon and opened the gift. Inside was a bright orange tie with dark embroidery, R. Just the letter R. Carefully, Rocky took it out of the box and looked it over, the fabric felt rich and it was obvious it was designed and made with purpose. With luck. And add in the fact it's a gift, then it was made with love as well.

He heard Atlas stand and move, taking the tie and carefully draping it over Rocky’s neck. “It suits you, not only because it has your initial,” He began to tie it for him, “but because it is the embodiment of you. The color is bright and sudden, like a stop sign. However, it also is noticeable, the one thing that makes you stand out. Similar to the stars in the night sky.” He smoothed out the tie, then Rocky’s suit.

Rocky listened intently to the words coming from Atlas’ mouth. There felt like something else the older man had to say, and he was right.

“Roark..times are getting rough. There’s more challenges and challengers to take in account.” Atlas seemed distant, like he was coming to terms with something, “I fear my time here is coming to an end soon. Do be mindful of my love, won’t you? She will need all the help and support she can get.”

“What?” Rocky questioned, his ears lowering, “What, are you, like, retiring?”

Atlas looked at Rocky, then smiled, “You could say that.” Despite him smiling, he could see a sadness in Atlas’ gaze- like he knew something and he couldn’t tell Rocky. The grey tomcat peered down at his new tie, a sadness and inner turmoil churning in his heart. He didn’t want Atlas to retire, but he could tell the man was tired.

“Thank you, sir.” Rocky said, looking back up at Atlas, “I know it’s only been a couple of days that I’ve had the pleasure of playing for you, but I never really..thanked you. You know, for allowing Mrs. M to take in a dirty stray like me.” There was a way that Rocky was speaking, he was being vulnerable. For the first time in a long while, he allowed for his facade to chip away bit by bit, his body becoming smaller and turning in on himself. “I know I am not of much worth to you, but I promise I will be of use to Mrs. M when you leave. I’ll be there to help her in any way I can, I promise.”

The door opened and the two looked towards Mitzi, who looked at them. “Oh, Rocky honey, you got your gift!” She scampered over to him, looking at it, “Ain’t it just the prettiest tie? So fitting for you!”

Rocky smiled, his facade back in place as he nodded, “Thank you! I really like it.”

Still, even as he and the two other cats talked as they walked down towards the speakeasy, Rocky still felt that unease and sadness churning all around his heart, slowly dripping into his stomach as he and Atlas shared a knowing glance. He wanted to ask around about what the older one meant, but something told him to keep it on the downlow.

So he would.

Chapter Text

Rocky stood beside Mitzi in the rain, holding an umbrella above her head. He could hear the priest praying as a casket was lowered into a grave. Atlas’ casket. Rocky didn’t know exactly what happened, however he knew the man was murdered. He didn’t know why, but he could tell Mitzi was struggling to hold back tears. Around them were people Rocky didn’t know, with only the band members, Viktor, Ivy, and Mordecai being the exceptions.

His gaze lowered, the sight of someone he came to view as a good friend was dead and being buried beneath mud. Why mud, of all things? Why did it have to rain today? Why now? This was cruel, so fucking cruel.

Despite the need to be strong for Mitzi, tears welled up in his blue eyes and his shoulders bobbed up and down. He felt someone lean into his side and he looked only to find Mitzi crying as well. He moved his umbrella to his other hand, wrapping his arm around the widow and allowing her to cry into his shirt. As the final round of mud covered the wooden casket below, Rocky coaxed Mitzi into burying her face into his chest, shielding her from the sight.

After the funeral, Rocky drove her and Ivy back to Little Daisy Cafe, where they got out and headed inside. It was empty and all the more dreary. Everything seemed lifeless now, it was painful to look at the booth where Atlas and his business friends would sit. Ivy helped Mitzi into a chair, the widow still crying albeit less now. Rocky truly did hate seeing her cry.

He did make a promise, however, to Atlas. He’d be there for Mitzi in every step, in every way. Whenever she needed him, he’d be there. He’d protect her and this place. Rocky would make sure she’s okay and provided for- hell, if he needed to work multiple jobs he would.

But for now, he needed to make her happy.

Rocky bustled about, making coffee and handing them to Ivy and Mitzi, who took the mugs and mumbled their thanks. The bell on the door rang as Mordecai and Viktor entered, taking off their rain gear and placing it on the coat rack nearby. Viktor seemed mildly upset, Mordecai looked solemn. Rocky poured them both some coffee, but Mordecai simply pushed his mug away.

Rocky spoke, his tone lighthearted and nostalgic, “Ivy, remember when you told me about your sixteenth birthday?”

Ivy perked, a small smile appearing on her face, “I do. I remember the cards I got and how Mitzi tried to push my face into my cake.” She looked at Mitzi, who was still sniffling, “Atlas, he proceeded to give me what I always wanted- a job. Here. It was the greatest gift I ever received..”
“Reminds me of Atlas’ last birthday.” Mitzi spoke, her voice sad yet happy in a way, “I made him a cake and since I couldn’t push his head into it, I grabbed it and shoved it into his face on my own.”

Rocky smiled, seeing how his plan was slowly working. “What kind of cake was it?”

“Cherry. It stained his fur for days!” Mitzi laughed, wiping away her tears. “Looked like he had a red beard.”

“Da, I remember that.” Viktor said, sipping at his coffee, “I’d say he looked like a clown.”

The group, except for Mordecai, shared a laugh. Then it drifted off into a nice, content silence. One much needed after the two hours they spent at the funeral home. Rocky was incredibly happy with how much he just helped. But still, his thoughts drifted back to what Atlas had said to him.

“I fear my time here is coming to an end.”

Did he know he was going to die? Or was he actually planning on retiring? Rocky felt he knew the answer. He knew he was going to die someway or another, and definitely soon. But why? Why was he killed? Who killed him? There were so many questions that Rocky wanted to ask, but who could he ask? Did anyone here know? Did they have the answers he so desperately wanted?

“Rocky.” Mitzi spoke, alerting him, “Walk with me, honey.” The woman got out of her seat and moved towards a staircase, Rocky following after her immediately. “I have a job offer for you.”

“A job? Like, at the cafe? With all due respect, ma’am, I can not be trusted near the stove.”

“No, honey,” Mitzi ushered him into Atlas’ old office, “it’s much different than the cafe. And I am by no means stupid enough to trust you in the kitchen.”

“So, I’d be working away from you? I can’t do that either, Mrs. M, I made a promise to Atlas I’d look after you and I’m going to keep that promise.” Rocky stated firmly, watching Mitzi shut the door behind her.

She smiled fondly at him, patting his hand with her own, “Let me finish. You’ll still be working for me, however it is a much more..vigorous job.” Mitzi led him to the chairs nearby, “I know you have some questions and I know I can answer them, somewhat.”

“What happened, Mrs. M? Why would anyone kill Mr. M like that?” Rocky asked the first question that came to mind, his ears folding back, “Who did it? I’ll make quick work of them, I swear it!”

“Rocky.” Mitzi silenced him, sitting in a chair as he did, “I don’t know who did it, no one does. I’m afraid we might never know. However, I do know why. You see, my husband wasn’t all he put himself to be in front of you. I will admit that was under my request- to keep you out of the second life he lived.”

“But why?” Rocky asked, his ears lowering greatly. “Did you not think I could be of use?”

“No, honey, don’t even think that.” Mitzi scolded lightly, looking at him with caring eyes, “I just wanted to protect you. You’re still young, I didn’t want anything to happen.” She paused, taking his paw on her own, “He lived a very dangerous life behind the scenes. You know how Prohibition was passed, we had to do what we could to get liquor..illegally.”

Rocky connected the dots immediately, “Rumrunners?”

Mitzi nodded, “We..are all rumrunners. Viktor and Mordecai..the reason you never really see them a lot is because they’re out getting booze for us from our dealers.”

Rocky lowered his gaze, “So, what is my new job?”

“I think you know the answer to that, honey.”

Chapter Text

“What?” Mordecai asked, ears pinned back as he stared at the feline in front of him, “You can’t be serious. Why him? Why him of all people?”

Mitzi looked at Mordecai, “Because I can’t rely on just two people. I need more help than I actually got. Rocky will do just fine.”

“He’s inexperienced, reckless, and a nut job! How on earth do you think this is going to end, Mitzi? We’re all going to be caught, or worse, killed!” Mordecai stated, standing from his desk, “Are you really comfortable putting our lives at risk?”

“Now, I do not want to hear that backtalk.” Mitzi scolded, crossing her arms, “Rocky will be a valuable asset.”

Mordecai sighed heavily, tempted to “talk back”, but seeing as she had just lost her husband he’d shut his mouth for now. He wasn’t fond of Rocky joining their illegal business, in fact he quite honestly loathed the concept entirely. He didn’t want the tomcat to be in harm's way, which took him a good effort to admit to himself. Especially since earlier that morning, he and Rocky got into a debate about waffles and pancakes. An odd subject, but it was fun in a way. The quips and actual logical statements the tabby conjured up were exciting and oftentimes surprising. Mordecai wouldn’t deny the warmth enveloping his stomach and chest when Rocky leaned forward, clearly displaying interest in what he had to say. Not because he HAD to, but because he wanted to.

He didn’t want to see Rocky injured or killed. Still, he knew he’d have to adjust to this predicament. Mitzi always got what she wanted some way or another.

Mitzi continued, “Now, play nice with him.” And with that, she turned and walked out of his office, leaving Mordecai silently annoyed.

What would he do now? Adjust and accept, clearly, but for some reason there was the nagging feeling that something was wrong. Especially now that Atlas was out of the picture. They were in dangerous territory, no one would truly accept Mitzi as an equal and without a “leader” their very operation was doomed. Glancing down at the letter he had received proved his very point. It was a letter from one of their dealers, Mr. Macamoy. He had written to cut ties with them. They just lost a dealer, and when one leaves, the others will follow.

Mordecai would never admit it, but he was a bit scared. Now that they were left vulnerable, death was inevitable and looming on the horizon. It didn’t help Atlas had a good bit of enemies made before his brutal death.

Mordecai stopped for a moment, blinking.

Who had killed Atlas?

Which one of the bastards killed him? He looked down at the letter he had been reading over and over again as he allowed himself to think. Curiosity invaded his senses, his ear flicking for a second. Just which one of Atlas’ enemies killed him? Was it even a foe? Perhaps a friend? Had they been betrayed? Played like a deck of cards unknowingly? The very thought that not only Atlas had been tricked, but he himself made Mordecai’s blood boil. It was either friend or foe: one meant deceit and betrayal, the other meant hatred and a means to survive in a spider web of very unlawful schemes. Somehow Mordecai prayed it was the latter instead of the former.

His first thoughts were enemies. He quickly listed them off in his head.

The Pride
The Silent Watchers
Silver Serpent

The Pride was a group of prideful felines who were greedy and vicious. They had been stolen from by him and Viktor once, they never forgave them for that. Their leader was Kingsley, his wife was Reyna. The two had five children whom Mordecai didn’t care about, it was a family gang. The Pride had well over thirty members, however they tended to keep to themselves. They were all talk, honestly, and the only time they ever killed was when their children were put in danger.

His next option was The Silent Watchers, though Mordecai doubted it was them. They very rarely used murder as a means to get what they wanted, opting for extreme torture. They relied on speed and cunning rather than brute strength. Mordecai had briefly talked to their leader Aarav, a very quiet man who walked and had a sense of dignity Mordecai admired. Zib, in his drunken state, had flirted with his wife and, well, Aarav didn’t appreciate that.

Still, they wouldn’t have taken it personally so Mordecai crossed them off the list of suspects.

Up next was The Silver Serpent, a group of wiley and slippery criminals who have gotten caught but almost always got away with their deceitful tongues or underground connections. They despised Viktor, since he actually killed one of their men. However, none stepped up to challenge him- or Lackadaisy in general. While they were cunning and slippery, they were outnumbered in terms of allies.

Mordecai huffed, not entirely liking how this was playing out. He listed off their remaining allies.

Bonded Brothers
Old Guard
Bone Breakers
Shield
Marigold

The Bonded Brothers were, surprisingly, kin to Atlas. Not biologically, however they viewed him with a familial love and admiration. They were always giving him places to grab some booze, guns, anything Atlas needed at that exact moment at least one of the brothers would have input. They were present at Atlas’ funeral and apparently they visit his grave daily. Matter of fact, he had just gotten a letter earlier depicting their grief and prayers to Mitzi and the business. They definitely weren’t the ones who killed Atlas.

The Old Guard were old news, mainly inactive and retired. Of course, this was due to them being old, some nearing 90. They were said to be the first gang in St. Louis and the most feared, at one point. They were still feared and weren’t opposed to fighting, however their ages are a hindrance. Nonetheless, Atlas and them got along great. Throw in their mutual respect and age, Mordecai doubted their involvement.

The Bone Breakers were full of brutes and barbarians and, while Mordecai didn’t approve of their reckless and messy ways of keeping people in check, he did admire their loyalty to Atlas and how they would act as bodyguards for the man occasionally. The Breakers and Viktor got along great as well.

The Shield were a group of medics with a few well known lawyers who would defend or twist the ropes in order to free anyone condemned and caught. Their reward was any liquor of their choice and, in some cases, protection in the public eye. Atlas and The Shield got along well enough, since he paid, not only in liquor, but money as well- to avoid any debts.

This left Marigold.

The Marigold gang runs and operates both the Marigold Room and Maribel Hotel and their leader is Mr. Sweet- Asa Sweet is his government name from what Mordecai remembered. He and Atlas were friends, but Mordecai always felt as though Asa was too jolly to be a true ally. It felt like his loyalty was a facade most of the time and he often gave backhanded compliments to nearly everyone. Mordecai’s gut churned, his instincts going haywire.

Mordecai stood, slipping his coat on. He had a feeling Asa was involved, if not directly, then indirectly. He’d figure this mystery out, even if he had to do something he’ll regret while trying.

Atlas would understand.

Chapter Text

“You can’t ve serious.” Viktor said, looking up from the hood of their car, “Vhat? Can’t stand the thought of your veloved in harm's way? Can’t stand to see him fall?” Mordecai only stood before the man in silence, ears pinned and chin tilted down. “Roark vill ve fine. So, don’t go. Stay here, Mitzi vill need you vy her side.”

“This isn’t about Rocky. This place is unsafe now.” Mordecai said, cleaning off his glasses, “With Atlas dead it is only a little time before we are all pinned in a corner and killed. Is that what you want, Viktor? To be killed?”

Viktor’s one good eye gleamed in the setting sun, a low growl emitting from his chest, “I’d rather die alongside comrades than alone.” He put down his wrench, crossing his big arms, “Vouldn’t you vant to die alongside your love?”

“He is not “my love”, Viktor, he is, at best, an acquaintance.”

“Lies.” Viktor glared, “I see the vay you look at him. Vith hope and admiration, you’d follow him to the ends of the Earth, if you’d allow yourself to.”

Mordecai’s stoic demeanor faltered for a moment, the need to confide in someone about how he is feeling almost being known. He pursed his lips, keeping them shut, keeping his feelings and emotions concealed. “I’d do no such thing.”

“Liar.”

“I am not a liar.” Mordecai hissed, eyes narrowing.

“Liar!” Viktor roared, momentarily startling Mordecai when he slammed the hood of the car shut. “Vhy can’t you just let yourself go? Vhy so uptight about family and friends and love? Vhy hide how you feel? Vhy leave when ve all need you the most?!”

“I have to leave, you imbecilic brute!” Mordecai raised his voice, “It is not safe here anymore. No one will see Mitzi as their equal, hell, they’re already speculating she killed Atlas! If we don’t abandon ship now, we’ll only be swept under the waves and drown! No one will give us sanctuary, not even The Old Guard!”

“So vhat, you just abandon the people who vant you? Vho need you?”

“That’s not-- You don’t understand!”

“I do understand,” Viktor growled, stepping closer to Mordecai who shrank back, “I understand all of this vas never enough for you! I understand you’d rather run and hide than stay vhere HE vould vant you!”

Mordecai’s neck fur bristled, baring his teeth uncharacteristically, “You will not tell me how I feel!”

“You feel nothing!” Viktor hissed.

“I feel everything!” Mordecai yelled, his facade tearing at the seams he so intricately and delicately sown, “I can not stay here. Not a moment longer. If you will not leave with me, I advise you to retire.”

“Retire? No, not so long as both of my knees are vorking.” Viktor scoffed, “Unlike you, I von’t abandon my friends.”

BANG.

Viktor crumpled to the ground, gasping in pain. Instinctively, his hands flew to his knee which was bleeding profusely. He gritted his teeth, breathing quickly as he dared to look up at the man looming over him, the man he had believed to be a friend. Viktor didn’t want to believe Mordecai had just shot him, he didn’t want to believe it at all. Still the pulsing in his knee and the blood coating his hands forced him to believe. He wanted to say something, to ask if this is how he really wanted things to end between them.

But he couldn’t speak. All he could do was clench his eyes closed and apply pressure, letting out low groans and even hisses of pain.

“There. You can retire now.”

Mordecai turned and walked out of the garage as he heard the scampering of shoes approaching. He pushed aside any guilt, reasoning with himself that his actions were justified and he was doing it to help keep Viktor safe. Still he wouldn’t deny he acted out of anger. He hadn’t even realized he reached for his gun until Viktor’s body fell and he initially thought he had killed the man. Mordecai had nearly dropped down beside him, nearly apologized and shouted for help. When he realized he had only kneecapped him, his worries lowered, even if he still felt the need to help.

Mordecai hadn’t wanted their friendship to end like this. He just wanted his friend to join him in leaving Lackadaisy and find out if Marigold did assist in Atlas’ death. He should've known the man wouldn’t have even let him finish speaking. He should’ve known the man would blow up, take things the wrong way.

“Mordecai!”

The tuxedo cat stilled, looking up at the man he especially didn’t want to see. Rocky stood there, seemingly on his way to the cafe. Mordecai’s heart froze, he’d see what he did. What would he think? Why did Mordecai allow himself to care so much about Rocky’s thoughts and opinions about him?

“Where are ya headed?” Rocky asked, then he paused, “Are you okay? You look like you just shot someone!” If only you knew, Mordecai wanted to say. He wanted to give some sarcastic remark, maybe even analytic. Yet he found his lips unable to move. Rocky leaned forward, “Mordecai?”

“It’s best if you keep walking, Rocky.” Mordecai managed after a good amount of effort, narrowing his eyes, “You wouldn’t want to keep Mitzi waiting.”

Rocky seemed to be saddened at this comment, then he nodded, “Yeah. You’re right. See ya later, Mordecai.” As the grey tomcat sauntered off towards the cafe, Mordecai felt his heart ache.

He wanted to grab Rocky and tell him to go with him, that they’ll avenge Atlas. Together. Mordecai’s hand inched to grab Rocky’s, but he forced himself to still. He couldn’t let his emotions get ahead of him, not anymore.

“Goodbye, Rocky.” He called back, watching Rocky turn, smile, and wave at him. Mordecai would miss that smile and those sapphire eyes. As Rocky disappeared, Mordecai quickly ran off.

Chapter Text

Rocky stood beside Zib, the band quiet and unnerved. Word had gotten out what Mordecai did, matter of fact, Rocky walked in to Zib and Mitzi trying to stop the bleeding. Rocky didn’t know how to feel, he still had an attraction to him, but it felt so wrong now. Viktor didn’t like Rocky, but Rocky admired his strength.

Zib was right, Mordecai was dangerous. He shot Viktor and left for another gang, Rocky didn’t know which one. Why should he even care? He hurt one of his own, whose to say he wouldn’t target Mitzi next?

The very thought made Rocky’s fur bristle and stand on end. As much as he was attracted to Mordecai, he’d rather die than let him hurt Mitzi- directly or not. So, as much as he didn’t want to, he’d put his feelings for Mordecai aside. Especially since he was now an enemy.

“You, alright, kid?” Zib asked, placing a stabilizing paw upon Rocky’s shoulder.

Rocky nodded, “Yeah, just thinking.”

“About him?” Sy questioned.

Rocky didn’t answer. What could he say? That he missed him? Missed stealing glances at him and hearing his voice from afar? It was stupid of him to even think Mordecai liked him back, even if it was just a small amount. Mordecai wasn’t his and he’d never be his. Despite this knowledge, everything felt so wrong now. The structure he had sought refuge under had crumbled effortlessly and all Rocky could do was watch as the place he had come to love slowly came to ruin. Just within the span of a week too. Why did the gods hate him? Even worse, his birthday was in two days.

“Your silence is very telling.” Walter remarked, slightly amused.

Rocky glared at him, “What do you want me to say? That I miss him?”

“Ideally, I mean, you are allowed to grieve that relationship.”

“What relationship, J.J? There isn’t a relationship to grieve!”

The band members looked around at each other, then focused back on tuning their instruments. Rocky looked at them, then huffed and leapt off the stage. He wasn’t normally one to show anger, but something about the way they were gawking and insinuating that there was something there when there wasn’t! It was weird, it was cruel.

He could hear Zib call after him, but Rocky kept walking. He needed to talk to someone who was family. Blood family. And so, he got into the car and began to drive. It wasn’t a long drive, but it was long enough for Rocky to gather his thoughts and feelings and put them into a “say this” pile. Which when he imagined it was very tall. As he drove up to his aunt’s house, he decided he wouldn’t keep anything in the dark. He wasn’t one to keep anything from his cousin anyway.

“Aunt Nina!” Rocky greeted, stepping towards the woman who was tending to her garden, “How are you this fine day?”

“What do you want, Roark?” His aunt asked, annoyed by his presence. Which honestly? Understandable.

Rocky didn’t mind her annoyance, he was used to it. “Where is my lovely cousin?”

“Training. He should be back in a couple hours.” His Aunt answered, finally turning to look at him. She seemed a bit shocked.

“What? Is there something on my face?”

“Have you been cryin’?” His Aunt asked, slightly concerned and confused, “Whatever for?”

Rocky touched his eyes, finding the fur around them to be damp. “Oh. Nothing much, just some troubles at work, is all.”

Instinctively, Rocky flinched back when Nina raised a hand towards him- expecting her to hit him like she usually did, especially when he got too courageous. Instead, she simply wiped his eyes and brushed back his fur, “Come on inside and talk with me.”

Rocky didn’t dare argue with her, she was being sweet to him for once. Together, they walked inside and Rocky took his coat and hat off. He followed his Aunt into the living area and sat down on the couch, allowing her to take his things and set them on the coat rack.

He lowered his head into his hands, sighing heavily. He felt the couch dip and he began to speak, “You know what I told you a while back? That I was having these feelings for men?” He felt a hand upon his shoulder and he understood the cue, “I found someone.”

“I’m surprised anyone can keep up with you.” His Aunt said, “That doesn’t explain why you were crying. Has anyone found out? Did someone threaten you?”

Rocky shook his head, already feeling tears fill his eyes and his heart crack more and more. He’s never felt such pain before, not even when he’d dislocate his arms or be bitten and stung by various wild animals and insects. Somehow this hurt worse and it wasn’t even a relationship! It was a crush! One he indulged in too much, he supposed.

“Roark--”

“He’s gone.”

“What?”

“He’s gone!” Rocky shouted, snapping to look at his Aunt, “He left La-- He left the place the band performed at. He got into an altercation with someone we all believed to be his friend, and--and he left! What’s worse is I allowed myself to be delusional, I allowed myself to be so foolish. He didn’t even like me. He barely talked to me, barely acknowledged my presence.”

His Aunt simply stared and allowed Rocky to get his feelings out into the air, her brows furrowing and frown deepening. She kept a firm hand on him, but didn’t apply too much pressure. The woman was grateful for her decision, especially since the man stood abruptly and began to walk back and forth.

“He clearly was repulsed by me and who wouldn’t be? I’m a complete idiot and a complete mess! I hate how much of a horrible person I am. How expandable I am! No one needs me - - hell, no one wants me!” Rocky continued, tugging at his ears, “But I so desperately want someone to at least want to be near me, to tolerate me! And I let myself believe for a second that- - that I was about to get it too!”

He folded in on himself, collapsing to his knees as tears finally slipped. His mask broke in half. He felt pathetic, crying like this over a man he barely knew. Still he continued, “And I’m constantly hearing talk about how a man loving a man is so wrong, that it’s a sin. Do you know how draining that is? How much it hurts to just hear that I was born wrong? Defective? Am I truly damned for just wanting to love someone?”

Aunt Nina watched as her nephew broke down into tears. As much as she disliked him, she didn’t want to see him suffer like this.

He had his mothers eyes after all.

So, she stood and knelt down and wrapped him into a hug. She could feel his sobs coursing through his body, each inhale and exhale sharp and jagged.

She stroked his head, “You are not defective, Roark.”

“I am.” He began, sniffling.

“No, you are not.” Aunt Nina stated firmly, pulling him into her chest, “You are perfectly made. Look, sinners hate sinners who sin differently. Love, however, can not be a sin. It is an involuntary action. You cannot control who you love, honey, and answer this question. Why would God create love if it was not permitted to everyone?”

Rocky buried his face into his aunt's blouse, crying harder at the question. “To hurt people?”

“No,” she forced him to look at her, wiping his eyes and nose with her sleeves, “The answer is; he didn’t. He made love for everyone- whether people like it or not. Even if you were sinning, your sin would be love. Theirs would be hatred.”

Rocky broke down sobbing once more. He hated this so much, he hated how much his heart hurt. He hated the empty space that was inside him, waiting for Mordecai. He’d wait and wait, even if the other wasn’t attracted to him. Mordecai was the one Rocky yearned for, not anyone else.

“As for that boy--”

“Mordecai.”

“As for Mordecai, he can go bugger off. You are talented, Roark, I’ve seen and heard how skilled you are with your violin. And just how large your vocabulary is. You have the drive to conquer your challenges,” Aunt Nina cradled his face in her hands, looking her nephew over, “Why let this one drag you down? I know your heart is hurting, but your life will continue and it will get better one way or another.”

She slowly stood, coaxing him up in the process, “Come on, dearie, let’s get you fed and into bed.”

Chapter Text

Months had passed and Rocky opted to distract himself. He slowly built back up his mask, acting and being dramatic was his expertise. His Aunt had gone back to her usual ways, but was more sweet in her own way. Rocky rarely played for the band anymore, instead he was sent on job after job buying booze for Mitzi. He and Viktor were the ones going back and forth originally, however his knee, the remaining good one, wasn’t as good as it used to be, so Mitzi forcibly made him retire. So now, it was just Rocky.

Rocky was the one bringing in the booze, escaping death multiple times. He had learned he wasn’t entirely trusted with guns and the one time he did use a gun- he shot his own ear. Still, he had to learn how to defend himself, or at the very least escape those dangerous situations.

He didn’t have to be perfect.

He just had to be precise.

He became a master of escape and improv, easily distracting his attacker or escaping. If he couldn’t, he waited for a good moment to strike. Every time he nearly died, he thought back to the promise he made Atlas- to be there for Mitzi. Protect her, keep her happy. Rocky would say he was doing a good job at that.

Still, he knew he wouldn’t be able to keep this up on his own. He needed some help. Which is what he was pondering about as he was hauled up and into a truck filled with hay. Rocky had gone to confirm a deal and ran into three brothers and their friend, who were unhappy to see him. Rocky did try to ease the tension, but he was met with a fist to the eye and his clothes being used as rope to bind him.

His back struck the hay and he huffed, looking around. “I guess that makes you my travel companion,” He said to the dead pig next to him, “I’ll call you Frothy.”

The truck came to life and began to move, slightly shifting Rocky and Frothy around. He asked if the dead pig knew where they were going, glancing side to side. He could see trees passing from in between the wooden barrier keeping him from flying out. Still, his thoughts were drifting.

He zoned out, looking up at the sky and the clouds passing by overhead. He had been doing so well these past few months, he had been distracting himself from the hollow pit in his heart. Still, it seemed to haunt him. He seemed to haunt him.

Mordecai Heller. Rocky wondered if he was doing well, if he was even alive. Deep down, he hoped he was. Every time he was left to his own thoughts, he’d come up with little fantasies about seeing him again. He wondered how he’d feel, what would he do? Rocky would definitely be happy, but probably also cautious. Mordecai had shot Viktor, he most likely wouldn’t hesitate to shoot him as well.

Rocky was jostled out of his thoughts as hands roughly grabbed and hauled him out of the truck and onto a railroad track. He was shoved onto his knees, the wood cutting the knee area of his pants. As he was about to get back up, a weight, a heavy weight, settled upon his back and he grunted. No use in running.

“I have to admit this is somewhat more creative than I expected,” Rocky said as one of the brothers began to nail down his tie, “from a bunch of witless rubes!”
He flinched back when one of the brothers shot at the spot next to him. Clearly, someone’s funny bone was broken.

He tried to talk the brothers into letting him go, but as the train was heard in the distance, Rocky decided to change his tactics. Especially upon hearing how one of the brothers hadn’t seen anyone get hit by a train before. “Well, the sight is spectacular!” Rocky assured, then he coughed, “Why not maximize the carnage? Add a certain pig to the mix, yeah?”

He was surprised when his suggestion worked to distract his enemies from him. He nudged himself off the track and pulled, but his tie was kept in place. He cursed its silken nature, tugging harder. When that didn’t work, he maneuvered his body all around, eventually pushing his arms back towards his chest. He tugged again, his fur bristling as the ground began to shake. He opened his jaws, gnawing at the fabric and letting out low growls. He wouldn’t allow himself to die here.

He froze when he saw the barrel of a gun, “You’re doin’ an awful lot of moving for someone who ain’t supposed to be movin’.”

“I can’t help it.” Rocky deflected, smiling all the while, “I have a condition.” The brother pointing the gun at him was vibrating now, so were the pebbles along the railroad. The guy said something to him, but the roaring in his ear was making it difficult to hear him. “What?”

The guy's lips moved, but the vibrating made it hard for Rocky to read his lips. “You’re gonna have to speak up! And stop vibrating, I can’t understand you! I said--” Rocky looked over, seeing his reflection made his fur stand on end and his body moved before his mind could think. He surged forward, his tie going up over his face and rendering him free. He turned, watching as the brother fired his gun. The train protected him and Rocky stood, scampering off. He laughed as he ran through the underbrush, adrenaline pumping through his body. He had evaded death again!

Chapter Text

Within the span of a week, he had caused a big mess in his life. Firstly, he got Freckle, his cousin, in on getting revenge on the pig farmers. Secondly, they literally hunted him down. Thirdly, he saw Mordecai Heller. The man who was plaguing his thoughts, consuming his mind. The man who haunted him for months on end. And he was standing right in front of him alongside his new boss, Asa Sweet.

When they locked eyes, Rocky nearly folded.

“Just a couple of my associates.” Mitzi said, gesturing to Rocky and Freckle, who was fighting off a butterfly. Yet Rocky couldn’t take his eyes off of Mordecai. His heart was aflame. He had missed those green eyes so much. His nose twitched. He smelt just as he did before he left. The only real difference was the flower sitting in his breast pocket.

He followed Mitzi when she moved to sit, instinctively Rocky pulled the seat out for her and was rewarded with a smile and pat on the arm. “I remember you,” Rocky stated, extending a hand towards the tuxedo feline, “Mordecai.”

He was shocked when Mordecai actually took his hand, “Rocky.” God, Rocky didn’t realize just how much he missed that voice. He could feel Mordecai’s hand trembling slightly. He gave it a squeeze instinctively, the former seemingly understanding the message. Calm down.

They sat down and Rocky picked up a menu. He wasn’t too hungry anymore, but he didn’t exactly want to meet Mordecai’s gaze. Especially since he could feel the man's eyes pinning him in one spot.

Mitzi began to speak, “You know, Mordecai, what you did last night nearly got Viktor killed.” Rocky could see Mordecai lower his chin and look at Mitzi, “After all those years of working with him, Mordecai, you have nothing to say? Nothing to say at all?”

“Before I left, I reasoned with him to retire. He shouldn’t have been involved with this business anyway.” Mordecai replied as he picked up a menu.

“Is reasoned truly the right word?” Mitzi asked, “If I do recall, you kneecapped him on your way out.”

Mordecai hid his face, “That’s how one reasons with Viktor.”

Rocky felt his ears pin back, disapproval flashing in his eyes. He hated that Mordecai felt justified in his actions, however there was something strange about the man. He was different in a way, like he was on stage. His body language was a dead give away. Avoiding eye contact, the subtle flick of his ear, the slight lashing of his tail. He was angry deep down. Rocky wondered what he was mad about.

Mitzi and Asa spoke for a good while, Rocky rarely tuning in. He opted to stare out the window, occasionally looking back whenever Mordecai had something to say. He fully tuned in when Asa said something about Atlas.

“I warned Atlas much of the same thing not too long ago. Not too long before he died.”

Rocky immediately locked eyes with the man, who looked back towards Mitzi. Rocky felt his tail curl and uncurl, his ears standing at attention. What did he mean by that? The quick thought of Asa being Atlas’ murderer made the tomcat lean forward, his eyes glancing over the table. A vase would be a good-ish weapon to use if needed.

“What could you have warned him about?” Rocky asked, tilting his head. Mitzi, sensing the rising tension, patted Rocky’s hand.

“He asks a valid question. My husband knew of the danger in this line of work. What could you have possibly warned him about?” The woman questioned, taking the lead once more.

Asa looked between the two of them, silenced now. Rocky was about to say something else when Mordecai stood, excusing himself. Rocky’s eyes followed his retreating form, his first instinct was to chase after him. His body itched to run, but he held steadfast.

For one minute.

“May I be excused?” Rocky asked, already standing. He didn’t wait for the go ahead. He moved towards the restroom, glancing back to make sure his table wasn't looking, and dipped. He ran outside, looking around. Did he leave? Was he too late? He sighed, moving towards the car and looking at himself in the window. He looked like a mess.

He needed a moment.

Slipping into the driver's seat, he shut the door and groaned. “What did he mean?” Rocky asked himself, running a hand through his hair, “What does he know? Atlas, sir, I’m doing all I can. I’ve kept my promise. Just lend me a hand here, please. Give me a hint.”

“Roark.”

Rocky spun with a yell, fist up allowing it to connect with the intruder's cheek. He breathed heavily, tail bushy. “Mordecai?” he mumbled, watching the man rub his cheek, “Mordecai! I’m sorry, I didn’t realize you were here!”

Mordecai glared, “Evidently.” He fixed his glasses. “What do you know?”

“What?”

“What do you know about Atlas’ death?” Mordecai questioned, frowning, “You know something. I know you do.”

Rocky furrowed his brow, “I don’t-- I mean, I do, but I am not telling you. We’re not on the same side.” He glared, “Not after what you did to Viktor.”

Mordecai lowered his gaze, “Rocky, I did what I had to. You may not believe me, but we are on the same side.”

“Oh really?” Rocky remarked, looking at the flower that sat upon Mordecai’s chest, “That flower is sayin’ otherwise.”

“I’m aware I’ve moved, but it was for a good reason. Allow me to explain.” Mordecai said and Rocky paused. The look Mordecai was giving him, like he was a man on both his knees begging for forgiveness. Begging to be heard.

Rocky gestured for him to continue.

“I left Lackadaisy with a goal, a goal to find out who killed Atlas. Believe it or not, I was extremely close with him and I want to avenge him. Be it my own hand or someone else's. I tried to recruit Viktor, but the man twisted my words in his head and assumed I was just walking out on him. We argued. I can not disclose about what. Point is, I urged him to retire since he wasn’t going to join me and he said something and I acted out of anger. I..do not entirely regret shooting Viktor. I did it to keep him safe. Which failed from what Mitzi said.” Mordecai explained.

Rocky soaked in the information, nodding along. “Shooting someone to keep them safe? Who knows, maybe that will become a new trend.”

“Ever so funny, Rocky.” Mordecai replied, scooting towards the edge of his seat, “Please, tell me what you know.”

“I know just as much as you do. All I can tell you is that Atlas warned me about his death. He told me that his time at Lackadaisy was coming to an end and I promised him I'd take care of Mrs. M for him.” Rocky answered, then he gave Mordecai a pointed look, “I may have missed you, but do not make the mistake of believing I lead with my heart alone. When it comes to Mitzi, if I have to choose between you or her, I’m choosing her. I will not hesitate to--”

“Rocky, honey, what are you doing in here?” He turned, watching as Mitzi slid into the seat next to him, “We thought you went to the restroom.”

“Mitzi.” With a scream, Mordecai was struck with the woman's bag, knocking off his glasses. “Can I not be hit for five seconds? That’s all I ask for!”

“Oh! You. What are you doing here?” Mitzi asked, disdain evident on her face.

Mordecai fixed his glasses once more, annoyed, “I’d like a word with you.”

“Is that all? Why do you always do things the creepy way?” Mitzi sighed, looking at Rocky, “Honey, go wait outside.”

“No. It is alright. He can stay.” Mordecai assured, but Rocky shook his head.

“I think it’d be better if I let you both have a moment alone.” Rocky replied, getting out of the car. He shut the door and moved towards Freckle, who stood behind the car itself.

“Okay?” Freckle asked and Rocky nodded, “Was that him?”

“Yes, that is the Mordecai who stole my heart and crushed it..unknowingly.”

“He was staring at you the entire time we were inside for lunch?”

“Details, Freckle, details.” Rocky waved his younger cousin off, fixing his tie. He fixed Freckle’s hat absentmindedly, the latter allowing this. “It seems Atlas answered my prayer. Just a bit.”

“What do you mean?” Freckle asked, following Rocky’s gaze towards the man who sat in the vehicle speaking to their boss. “What did you two talk about?”

“He gave me some valuable information. That’s all you need to concern yourself with, cousin.” Rocky assured. The two fell silent when Mordecai stepped out of the vehicle, him and Rocky meeting eyes once more, then in a flash, Mordecai glanced downwards. The tabby stepped closer to him upon his silent request.

Mordecai slipped something in his hand and Rocky immediately stuffed it into his coat pocket.

Chapter Text

“You can’t seriously be going.” Freckle deadpanned, looking at Rocky, who stood in his room, “I mean, he supposedly broke your heart.”

“A broken heart can mend.” Rocky shrugged, aware of the sigh that leaves Freckle, “And it’s not a romantic get together. We’re just giving each other some backstory. I think. He was very vague in his napkin letter.”

Truth is, Rocky was viewing this as a date. In little ways. He was dressing up nicer, he actually showered beforehand and put on cologne and a nice watch- both borrowed from Freckle, but still it’s the thought that counts. Currently, he was allowing Freckle to brush the small mats out of his tail.

Freckle breathed out, “You really need to brush on the daily.”

Rocky ignored him, opting to focus on combing through his cheek fluff. There it was again, the excited feeling coursing through his body. The ever so addictive release of endorphins he rarely got after Mordecai left. Now he was back. Not back at Lackadaisy, but back in his life. Secret comrades. Secret lovers, Rocky fantasized. A forbidden love that could possibly result in death if they weren’t careful. The thrill sent a dark shiver down his spine.

“Finished.” Freckle yawned as he set down the brush filled with thick, grey and cream fur, “You look nice for once.”

Rocky stood and looked at himself in the mirror, grinning ear to ear. The dark blue suit he had on fit him well, thanks to his Aunt who fixed it to his liking. His lucky tie sat behind his vest, but nonetheless it brought everyone's attention to it. He smoothed out his suit and exhaled slowly, looking at the time. 2:00 AM. Better to be early than late.

“Go back to bed, Freck.” Rocky ordered, coaxing the ginger cat up into his bed, “I’ll tell you everything in a couple of hours.” He pulled the covers over his cousin who was already dozing off.

Rocky paused.

“If I’m not back by tonight, tell Mitzi I’m on vacation.”

And with that, he was leaving through his cousin's window. He got into his car, looking at himself in the rearview mirror and smoothing out his eyebrows. Then he put the car in drive and rode off towards the desired destination Mordecai had given. As he drove, he got lost in thought. He hoped this would be a regular thing from now on, meeting up with Mordecai so the male could give him useful information about the Marigolds. Not only that, but he’d get to know Mordecai more. Maybe one day he’ll try courting him, god, he couldn’t wait for that day. After all the nights Mordecai had haunted him, Rocky was finally able to see him. Twice every week. Tuesdays and Thursdays and sunday every two weeks.

He rode up to the abandoned bridge and put his car in park before exiting. He glanced around, then moved down the hill and stood under it. The small river glinted in the moonlight, the sounds of frogs croaking created a beautiful symphony. Not to mention the fireflies buzzing all around, a couple landing on Rocky. He waited patiently, occasionally checking his watch to see what time it was. He glanced up, noticing the dark figure moving towards him.

“Mordecai.” Rocky breathed, relaxing. A firefly landed upon his nose and he huffed, watching it fly off into the dark sky.

Mordecai stood in front of him now. “Rocky.” He looked the grey tomcat up and down, “Are you trying to become a lamp post?”

“What?” Rocky mumbled, then he looked at himself in the water. A good bit of fireflies resided on his head. He gently coaxed them off and into the air. “They always do that.”

“Some say a firefly landing on you brings good luck.” Mordecai replied, cleaning off his glasses.

Rocky smiled, “I am pretty lucky. I’ve escaped death a lot since you left.”

Morde didn’t seem pleased by this. Nonetheless he sighed as he placed his glasses back on his face, “What do you want to know?”

Right. Business talk.

Rocky ran a hand through his hair, “How close were you to him?”

“Extremely close. He gave me a gateway into his life and accepted me for who I was entirely.” Mordecai answered quickly, watching Rocky pick up a rock, “We worked together for a good few years and I enjoyed being around him, and I know he enjoyed my presence as well. I will not get into details, but he saved me.”

Rocky nodded, tossing the rock into the river. “Yeah. He saved me too.”

“And you? How close were you to him?” Mordecai questioned.

“Not that close, but close enough. I enjoyed playing for him, I enjoyed having talks with him and Mitzi. I remember he brought me to his tailor on the second morning of me working there.” Rocky smiled, grasping his tie and pulling it out of his vest, “He’s the one who gave me this tie. That’s also when he warned me about his death.”

“What all did he say?”

Rocky closed his eyes, forcing himself to remember, “He told me his time was coming to end. And for me to take care of Mitzi for him, because she’ll need me. That’s honestly all he got out.”

“And what did you say?” Mordecai asked, his voice a whisper now.

“I made a promise to take care of Mitzi and to protect her-- be there for her.” Rocky answered, matching Mordecai’s tone, “I’ve kept my promise. I have to.”

Silence fell upon them as they watched the moon's reflection swirl on the water. The night was serene, the air was cool and still, carrying a subtle freshness from the water and surrounding foliage. The fireflies arrived once more, floating about near Rocky’s body. Soft sounds fill the night: the distant hoot of an owl, the gentle rustling of leaves stirred by a light breeze, and the occasional splash of a fish breaking the surface. Perhaps here and there, the faint hum of distant cars or the faint chatter of nocturnal creatures adds to the quiet symphony.

“When did you start working?” Mordecai asked, his voice hushed.

“Immediately after you left. As soon as Viktor’s knee healed, he joined me. That was only for, what, two months? Then his knees, both of them, were giving him trouble. So I was alone up until two days ago. My cousin has joined Lackadaisy.” Rocky explained, then made a bold move of stepping just slightly closer. When Mordecai didn’t move away, he spoke once more, “I missed you.”

“I don’t see why. We barely knew each other.” Mordecai reminded, holding his gaze on Rocky, who looked at him. “Why are those creatures so fascinated with you?”

Rocky sighed, looking at his arms and coat which were riddled with fireflies. “I have no clue.”

A few of the glowing insects flew up towards Mordecai, hovering near his face. His first instinct was to swat at them, but there was something that caught his attention. His ears perked to the sound of a car, then a familiar voice calling out to him.

He growled, grabbing Rocky and shoving him into the muddy foliage nearby. “Get down and keep quiet.”

Rocky crawled deeper into the tall grass, sad that his interaction with Mordecai was interrupted. The fireflies still surrounded him and he growled in annoyance, swatting at them. They dispersed upwards and Rocky stuck to the mud.

“See, there he is!” Serafine laughed, looking at her brother who stood behind her then back to Mordecai, “Now, Peekon, what are you doing out so late?”

“You mean early. It is,” Mordecai checked his watch, “3:55 AM.”

“Doesn’t answer my question, cher.”

“I was simply coming here to think.” Mordecai lied, “Yesterday was rather..unnerving.”

Nico stepped up, “Seeing your old boss would do anyone in.”

Rocky pushed his body into the mud, moving further back when Nico got a little too close for comfort. He didn’t expect for more Marigolds to come, Mordecai clearly didn’t either if shoving him said anything. Rocky hadn’t even heard the two white cats pull up in a car or anything. He kept still, keeping his breathing slow and steady. This was fine.

“Let’s head back.” Serafine coaxed, grinning ear to ear, “No point in reminiscing.”

Rocky frowned, he didn’t want Mordecai to leave. He wanted to keep talking to him. He hadn't noticed his hand reached up ever so slightly, landing just a few inches away from his face. Nico in that exact moment stepped back.

And right onto Rocky’s hand.

The grey tabby suppressed a yell of pain, clenching his eyes shut.

“What the-- well, well! Lookie here, Serafine!” Rocky felt him be lifted up by his arm, rather roughly if he said so himself. “Looks like Mordecai gots a stalker!”

Rocky looked at Mordecai for help, but he only hardened his gaze. Rocky felt his heart breaking once more, had he been set up? Betrayed?

“He doesn’t seem to be anyone important.” The tuxedo cat replied and Rocky felt relief. It was an act.

Serafine took out her knife, using it to make Rocky face her, “Still, he seems rather fashionable. Valuable. Nico, brother mine, check his pockets.” Within seconds, Rocky was shoved to the ground, causing him to grunt. He was glad he hadn’t worn Lackadaisy’s brooch.

Another evaded death.

Nico patted him down, reaching into his pockets. “Nothing in there, sis.”

“Check his sleeves.”

Nico pushed Rocky’s sleeves up onto his biceps, chuckling as he took Freckle’s watch unknowingly. Rocky made a promise to get him another one. He was then hoisted up onto his feet. He glanced over at Mordecai, seeing the man’s tail bristling and lashing about. He was mad.

Serafine dragged her knife under his jaw and chin, “Awfully pretty.”

“I’m sad I had to rough him up.” Nico pouted. The two siblings shared a glance and he sighed, “Alright. Where do I get rid of him?”

What?

“Excuse me?” Mordecai questioned, alert and alarmed. Rocky looked at him in mild panic. “What do you mean, get rid of him?”

“We just robbed him, cher,” Serafine recalled, poking Rocky’s chin with her knife, “We can’t let him go.”

“I’m not going to tell anyone.” Rocky stammered out, the panic rising in his chest, “I don’t even have anyone to tell!”

The siblings laughed at his pitiful words, seeing him struggle clearly bringing them both delight.

“You certainly won’t after these beautiful waters consume you.” Serafine grinned, nodding her head towards the river- which seemed to be quicker than Rocky initially thought. He could feel his sleeves be worked around his body, once more acting like a rope to bind him.

No.

No!

Rocky dug his heels into the mud, forcing his fated death to slow. He glanced at Mordecai once more, seeing the man take a step forward before hesitating. Okay, so he would be no help.

“Doin’ that is just procrastinatin’ your death.” Nico advised, “Lift your feet up.” The man reached, grabbing under Rocky’s chin. Rocky allowed his instincts to guide him, lunging and locking his jaws around the man's hand. Nico groaned, then yelled.

“Are your teeth made of metal?” Nico growled, attempting to pull Rocky by his hair to get him off. “Let go, damnit!”

Rocky didn’t let go, in fact he bit down harder. Hard enough to start drawing blood. He must’ve looked like a terrified, feral animal. He felt water falling from the sky and dampening his head. Could his life get any worse? His vision went black for a moment and he let go of Nico’s arm, his nose bleeding from the force of his punch. He writhed around, watching as the water got closer and higher as the rain plummeted down.

“Morde--” He whispered, looking at Mordecai who was staring with wide eyes and pinned ears. “Help me!” He tugged in Nico’s grasp, “Help me!”

Mordecai mumbled something, then he reached and grabbed Nico’s arm, “I said let him go! We cannot risk killing random individuals.”

Serafine rolled her eyes, “Why do you hate fun?”

Nico paused and lessened his grip, clearly unsure if he should let Rocky go or throw him into the rushing waters below. Rocky breathed heavily, reapplying the pressure in his heels. His world spun and his feet slipped. Within seconds, he and Nico fell down. The rock beneath their bodies was slick and wet, causing the two to slide towards the edge. Rocky’s sleeves came undone and he dug his claws into the rock beneath him.

Nico was below.

Rocky was above.

Nico tightened his grip.

Rocky kicked him in the jaw.

Nico tumbled down.

“Nico!” Serafine called, rushing to grab her brother at the last minute. It was too late, the man was swallowed by the waves. Meanwhile, Mordecai stood there- frozen. Serafine growled and pulled out her gun, aiming at Rocky who was struggling to keep himself on solid ground.

As Serafine cocked her gun, Mordecai’s feet moved and he grabbed it. “Go get Nico. I’ll deal with this one.” Serafine nodded and ran off, nearly tripping over her own feet.

“Mordecai!” Rocky shouted, his claws were failing him. His tail was being pushed by the rushing water. He groaned, trying to climb back up. His shoes dug into the wet rock, but kept slipping. “Mordecai!”

Mordecai snapped out of his head and quickly moved, grabbing Rocky and hoisting him up onto solid land. “Are you--“

Rocky groaned, “I'm fine. I’m fine. Are you okay? You look..panicked.”

Mordecai breathed heavily, “I will be fine.”

Rocky nodded, the two of them sitting in silence for a while. The tabby hissed softly as the adrenaline wore off, looking down and seeing his hands swollen and a bit bloody from getting cut by the rocks. His legs ached too.

“I didn’t know they’d hunt me down.” Mordecai whispered, watching as Rocky leaned over the edge and dipped his hands into the rushing water. “I would have helped earlier, but--”

“I know.” Rocky assured, pulling his hand out of the cool depths, “It would’ve been dangerous if you had. We need you alive, not dead.”

“We need to meet up at different locations.” Mordecai stated, standing. He helped Rocky up as well, brushing his suit off. “Next time, we’ll meet in a more public place. The Savoy’s aren’t stupid enough to venture out during the day. People know their faces.”

“How about the park? The one with the big tree?” Rocky suggested, fixing his tie.

Mordecai nodded, looking the man over. He had a lot of things to say, so many words. Mainly about how sorry he was to have nearly gotten him killed, how he so desperately wanted to help him and was torn between exposing himself and protecting Rocky. He despised how effortlessly he gave his heart away, it wasn’t even his choice! The moment he saw the tabby at lunch, he was putty in his hands whether Rocky knew it or not. Seeing Rocky being manhandled, nearly killed, made Mordecai undeniably angry.

“I know which one you speak of.” Mordecai replied, “We’ll meet there. At 12:00 PM.”