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Two high schoolers figuring out life and romance.", "count": "12", "submission_left_submission_id": "3261285", "submission_left_file_name": "4923223_BrigantineW_10_axel_and_isaac.doc", "submission_left_thumbnail_url_huge": "https://nl1.ib.metapix.net/thumbnails/huge/4923/4923223_BrigantineW_10_axel_and_isaac.jpg", "submission_left_thumbnail_url_large": "https://nl1.ib.metapix.net/thumbnails/large/4923/4923223_BrigantineW_10_axel_and_isaac.jpg", "submission_left_thumbnail_url_medium": "https://nl1.ib.metapix.net/thumbnails/medium/4923/4923223_BrigantineW_10_axel_and_isaac.jpg", "submission_left_thumb_huge_x": "300", "submission_left_thumb_huge_y": "300", "submission_left_thumb_large_x": "200", "submission_left_thumb_large_y": "200", "submission_left_thumb_medium_x": "120", "submission_left_thumb_medium_y": "120", "submission_right_submission_id": "3501297", "submission_right_file_name": "5346595_BrigantineW_13_axel_and_isaac_space_to_breathe.doc", "submission_right_thumbnail_url_huge": "https://nl1.ib.metapix.net/thumbnails/huge/5346/5346595_BrigantineW_13_axel_and_isaac_space_to_breathe.jpg", "submission_right_thumbnail_url_large": "https://nl1.ib.metapix.net/thumbnails/large/5346/5346595_BrigantineW_13_axel_and_isaac_space_to_breathe.jpg", "submission_right_thumbnail_url_medium": "https://nl1.ib.metapix.net/thumbnails/medium/5346/5346595_BrigantineW_13_axel_and_isaac_space_to_breathe.jpg", "submission_right_thumb_huge_x": "300", "submission_right_thumb_huge_y": "300", "submission_right_thumb_large_x": "200", "submission_right_thumb_large_y": "200", "submission_right_thumb_medium_x": "120", "submission_right_thumb_medium_y": "120" } ], "description": "Here's the next installment of Axel and Isaac! I hope you enjoy the ride, and I'll see you all next week!", "description_bbcode_parsed": "Here's the next installment of Axel and Isaac! I hope you enjoy the ride, and I'll see you all next week!", "writing": "Axel slept deeply, utterly spent from the previous night's activities. When he dreamed, it was of Isaac, as it had been the last, well, who knows how many nights? However, instead of his usual X-rated dream, Isaac glowed with a gentle white light. It seemed as if it seeped from every tuft of fur on his body, highlighting his trim, delicate figure. Captivated, the puma reached out to caress Isaac's cheek, and Axel took a deep, satisfied breath as warmth flooded him. His eyes half-lidded, he leaned in to kiss his lover, his friend, his little fox - \n\n[b][i]Bing-bong![/i][/b]\n\nAxel jumped, startled into wakefulness. With a groan, he shook Isaac's shoulder. \"Hey, babe, someone's at the door.\"\n\nIsaac grumbled, speaking around a yawn. \"S'probably a delivery. I bet they're already gone.\"\n\n[i][b]Bing-bong! Bing-bong![/b][/i]\n\n\"Or not.\" Isaac glanced at the clock, then frowned. \"Who's here at seven in the morning? And it's like exactly seven, too. I'll go see who it is.\"\n\n\"I'll come with you - \"\n\n\"Nah, don't worry about it. It's probably some salesperson or something. You stay here and stay comfy. I want more cuddles when I get back.\" The fox smirked at Axel, pulling on some loose gym shorts and a t-shirt. In his haste, he didn't realize that the shirt was Axel's until he pulled it on. \"Oh, whoops. Where's my shirt at?\"\n\n\"You should wear that!\" the puma said hastily. When Isaac quirked an eyebrow at him, he blushed. \"Uh, I mean, if you want to wear it, I guess. But you do look really cute. Boyfriend shirt?\"\n\n\"Smells like you, too. It's like a weird sort of extended hug, but I'm here for it.\" Isaac rolled his eyes as the doorbell went off again. \"Ugh, this sucks. Stay put, I'll be right back.\"\n\nAxel nodded, and Isaac tromped down the stairs. Looking out the window to the left of the door, he caught sight of a lean arm with tawny fur and black highlights. [i]Weird, that looks like Axel's fur[/i] - \n\nIsaac's eyes went wide, and he pulled his lips back, baring his teeth. He threw open the door and growled, \"Mrs. Stoneheath, you can't be here - \" He blinked. This wasn't Axel's mom. The puma that stood before him was slim, yes, though toned. And definitely a man. \"I-I'm sorry, I thought you were... someone else. May I help you, sir?\"\n\n\"That's all right, I understand. She's really put you two through a lot, hasn't she? You'll be Isaac, I presume?\"\n\nThe fox's arms went tight to his body. \"I'm sorry, do I know you?\" he asked, voice clipped\n\n\"Oh, goodness, no! But you are dating Axel, yes? This is the right house?\" The puma seemed relaxed, curiously looking into the house through the screen door. \n\n\"Sir, I don't know how you think you know Axel and I, but what we are to each other is nobody's business but ours. Now, who the hell are you?\"\n\n\"Oh! Where are my manners? I'm sorry, I'm such a scatterbrain.\" The man flipped his wrist and giggled. \"I'm Robert Stoneheath.\"\n\n\"D-Dad?\" Axel's voice quavered. He had come down the stairs, shirtless, in a pair of pajama pants. He rubbed the sleep from his eyes, moving to stand in front of Isaac.\n\n\"Axel! My goodness, son, you've gotten so big! Caleb told me you were doing something with football, but this is... wow!\"\n\nThe younger puma's face contorted as he snapped at his father. \"You don't get to come here, acting like everything's okay! You disappeared! For years, we didn't hear from you, not so much as a Christmas card. And now you want to show up here, of all places, unannounced and uninvited, and act like you're still my dad? Where the fuck do you get off?!\"\n\nRobert flinched. \"I-I texted you last night. I should've waited for a reply, b-but I couldn't wait to see you again. You... you didn't get any of the letters?\" The older puma looked like someone had punched him in the stomach. \"I sent so many. And presents, too, for your birthdays and Christmas. None of it? I'm sorry, kiddo, I don't understand what could've happened.\" \n\nAxel frowned. \"What do you mean, you sent us letters? I'd have noticed if you sent me - \" The younger puma's voice choked off. \"Mom. She never let us check the mail, she'd get super mad if we did. She said it was so she didn't miss anything important...\" The younger puma's eyes grew flinty. \"Did you really write to us? Look me in the eye and tell me that again; and I'll know if you're lying.\" \n\nRobert fixed his gaze on Axel's, unwavering, although he was misting up. \"Axel, I wrote you and your brothers a letter every week. Your mother won total custody in the divorce, but I never imagined she'd pull something like that.\" Axel's father sniffled and tears rolled down his cheeks. \"I assumed you boys hated me. But I got to see Caleb and Ben - I need to talk to you about that too - and they told me you were here. I came to see you one more time, now that I know what Vanessa doing to you three. But I swear to you, Ax, I always remembered to write to you. I never gave up hope that I'd get to see you boys again.\" He wiped his bleary eyes and shook his head. \"I'm sorry. I'll go; you're right, I don't have the privilege of being here anymore. What Vanessa was up to should've been obvious, and I didn't even try to fight it.\"\n\nThe screen door flew open, and Axel bolted out of it. The younger puma wrapped his dad in a tight hug, lifting him off the ground. When his dad's feet touched the ground again, the older puma's eyes were wide and misty. His son clapped his paws to the older puma's shoulders and grinned through the tears that flowed down his face. \"Dad, it's okay! I believe you. And that's all I needed. You tried. Damn it, I missed you!\" \n\nAxel swept him up in another hug, reciprocated by his dad. Isaac stood in the doorway, smiling, his heart warmed by their reunion. The fox cleared his throat to catch their attention, saying, \"Hey, it's still early. Do you want to invite your dad in? I can make breakfast while you two catch up.\"\n\nHis boyfriend nodded gleefully. \"Yeah! Oh, I mean, can you stay, Dad?\" \n\nRobert put his paw on his son's arm and squeezed. \"Bud, I've got all the time in the world for you.\"\n\nIsaac ushered them inside, closing the door before showing Axel's dad to the kitchen. \"Mr. Stoneheath, would you like some coffee?\" \n\n\"You have a lovely home, Isaac. I'd love some coffee. And please, call me Rob. You're an adult, too.\" Robert flashed a grin, and the fox saw how much Axel took after his dad.\n\nIsaac nodded, a little unsure. \"Uh, sure thing, R-Rob. Ah, do you have any dietary restrictions? I was thinking ham and cheese omelets.\" Axel's dad gave him a thumbs up, and Isaac went to work, brewing coffee and cracking eggs into a bowl.\n\nRob let out a low whistle. \"You lucked out, finding a man that can cook. Barry's hopeless in the kitchen; he always orders out.\" He waited for Axel to sit before taking the chair across from the young puma. \"So, I guess we've got a lot to talk about, huh? It's only been a few years, but it feels like forever.\"\n\n\"I know, Dad.\" Axel hadn't stopped grinning since Rob came in the door. \"Um, so, I guess the big stuff? I'm a defensive tackle on the football team, I'm working on getting a scholarship to Grenville Polytechnic - Isaac's helping me bring my English grade up - and, heh... turns out I'm gay too. Isaac and I are dating.\" He looked at the little fox, vigorously whisking eggs while butter sizzled in a pan, and he relaxed, a sigh escaping his lips.\n\nRob gave Axel a knowing smile. \"Oh, kiddo, you got it bad, dontcha? Ah, to be young and in love again. Although I suppose I was the same with Barry when we first met. So, Grenville Polytechnic, huh? That's a pretty competitive school. You have any fallbacks?\"\n\n\"Oh, er, no?\" Axel winced at the question. \"For the longest time, it was the only option I had. I needed a good degree so I could support Caleb, Ben and - \" Axel bared his teeth and growled. \" - Mom.\" \n\n\"Okay, son. Breathe. She's out of your life now. She can't hurt you anymore.\" Rob placed a paw on top of his son's. \"You're okay. Have you started therapy yet?\"\n\nA bowl clanged onto the floor in the kitchen, and both pumas turned to stare at Isaac, who put a paw to the back of his head and chuckled weakly. \"Uh, everything's okay! I'm, uh... clumsy!\"\n\nAxel knew his boyfriend was anything but clumsy, and resolved to ask him later. \"Okay, little fox! Be careful!\" Turning back to his dad, he said, \"No, I'm not in therapy. But I'm fine, I don't need it.\"\n\n\"You need it.\" Rob said flatly. \"You went through hell, kid. Your brothers told me you were working to support the house?\" When the young puma nodded, his dad clicked his tongue. \"And she was hurting you to boot. I have half a mind to... Mmm. No, that's not important.\"\n\n\"Ax, kiddo, you need to talk to someone about this. Otherwise, it's going to fester, and before you know it, you'll be lashing out, or shutting down, or both. And I don't mean Isaac!\" Rob quickly interjected when Axel opened his mouth. \"He's not a therapist. He can be there for you, and talk to you, but you need a professional. If money's a problem, I'll pay. Do you need me to set up the appointment for you?\"\n\n\"Y-Yeah, please.\" Axel's face flushed, and he looked down at the table, fidgeting his thumbs together. \n\n\"All right. I'll see if your school has any resources. Now that you're not living with your mom, I can intervene for you again. I'll call first thing tomorrow. Is the phone number Caleb gave me good?\"\n\n\"Yes, sir.\" Axel said morosely.\n\n\"Wh - Hey, kid, none of that. I'm not mad. Ax, look at me. Please?\" Axel looked up to see his dad's soft, smiling face. \"I promise, I'm not mad. You're a kid still, you're still figuring this out. This is what I'm supposed to be here for. We'll take care of it, okay? It'll be fine.\"\n\nAxel smiled weakly as Isaac arrived with a ceramic mug and three tall glasses of orange juice. \"Mr. - um, R-Rob, here's your coffee. There's more, but I couldn't balance the pot with everything else.\"\n\n\"Naw, I'm impressed, kid! Where'd you learn to do all that?\" Rob picked up his coffee and took a whiff. His eyes brightened as he took a sip. \"Damn! And this is great coffee!\"\n\nIsaac's cheeks flushed and his ears turned pink. Chuckling, he wiped a bead of sweat from his forehead. \"O-Oh, well, my mom owns a chain of diners. I work there in the summer. Henrietta's, if you're familiar with them.\"\n\n\"Your mom owns Henrietta's?!\" Axel and Rob shouted in unison. Isaac jumped, nodding slowly. Rob leaned back in his chair and whistled. \"Damn! No wonder you can cook.\"\n\n\"Axel can too! He made carbonara for our, er, date last night.\" Isaac hesitated a moment, then kissed Axel on the forehead, causing him to purr. \"It was delicious, too. I may have breakfast down, but Axel's got me beat on dinner - SHIT! The omelet!\" Isaac dashed to the kitchen, turning the stove off and inverting a pan onto a plate. \"It's good! Just a little brown!\"\n\nIsaac brought the omelets over and dished them out, Axel noting that he held them the same way Mr. Talbot did when he was trying to show off. The little fox sat down next to Axel and gestured to the food. \"Well? Dig in!\"\n\nAxel moaned at the first bite. He hadn't realized how hungry he'd been, and the fluffy yet creamy eggs combined with the sharp cheddar and savory, smoky ham were just perfect. He looked at his dad, who had a similar look of bliss. The young puma nudged Isaac with his foot. \"You know, we used to go to Henrietta's all the time before Mom and Dad... uh... split.\" Axel's face fell for a moment before he shook his head, and a smile bloomed again. \"It was our favorite breakfast spot. Mom never went; she always said it was too greasy, so it was just me, dad, and the twins. I used to always get the French toast.\"\n\n\"And you always ordered the platter, with sausage, bacon, and eggs.\" Rob spoke around a mouthful of egg. \"And finished before the rest of us even got halfway!\"\n\nIsaac raised an eyebrow. \"Axel finished first? But he eats so slowly!\"\n\nAxel poked at his omelet. \"Uh, well, after dad left and food wasn't always... well, I learned to savor my food.\"\n\n\"That bitch!\" Rob's face contorted, and he slammed his fist on the table, causing Isaac to jump and Axel to duck his head. \"Ah, shit. Sorry, Ax! I'm sorry, I'm not mad at you. I promise I'm not.\" The older puma set down his fork and rubbed his face. \"I-I offered to send money. I kept asking if there was anything you guys needed. She eventually stopped taking my calls. Always turned me down; wanted nothing from `that fag'. I swear, that bitter...\"\n\nIsaac rubbed Axel's arm. \"It's okay, hun. You're safe.\"\n\nThe younger puma took a shaky breath, blowing it out slowly. \"Yeah... I'm okay. Thanks, Isaac.\" Turning to his dad, he gave a half-smile. \"Thanks for trying, dad.\"\n\n\"Sure thing, kid. You just let me know if there's anything I can do for you now. Apparently, I've got a few years of presents to make up for. Now - \" a serious expression formed on Rob's face. \"What were you doing that warranted carbonara last night?\"\n\nAxel choked on a sip of orange juice and coughed. \"N-Nothing! I, er, wanted to make him something special?\" It came out like a question, and his dad noticed that.\n\n\"No special occasion? You cooked my special date night dinner for no reason?\" The older puma's face remained inscrutable, but Isaac caught his mouth quirking up at the corners. \"You sure there wasn't anything to celebrate?\"\n\nAxel stammered, \"N-Nope! N-Nothing at all! Just a normal night in, boring old date!\"\n\n\"Uh-huh. Did you boys use a condom?\" Rob grinned when the younger puma buried his face in his paws, and Isaac groaned.\n\n\"You should meet my dad,\" Isaac sighed. \"You're both shameless.\"\n\n\"W-We didn't do... that.\" Axel mumbled through his paws. \"We only did... ugh! Look, we didn't need one last night.\"\n\n\"We have some, though. For when - if! If that happens.\" Now Isaac flushed, and Axel's dad cackled. \n\nRob wiped away a tear from his eye, sharp fangs exposed in a smile. \"Well, I'll stop embarrassing you boys. And Axel? Next time, if you want to keep that stuff a secret from me, don't let it slip that you cooked my patented `ultimate romantic date night dinner' for your boyfriend.\" He looked sideways at his son and winked. \"I knew exactly what that meant.\"\n\n\"Yeah.\" Axel huffed. Although he looked away, he couldn't stop a grin of pride from spreading across his muzzle any more than he could stop the rosy blush of his ears. He reached out for Isaac's paw under the table and laced their fingers together. \"So, uh, Dad. You said you talked to Caleb and Ben?\"\n\nThe older puma nodded vigorously. \"Sure did! And guess what? They're coming to live with Barry and me!\"\n\n\"No way!\" Axel's mouth gaped for a moment before he beamed at his dad. \"That's incredible! Oh, but it's right in the middle of the school year...\" \n\n\"That's all handled. I'll be driving them to school in the mornings. Already cleared it with my boss and everything. They're even going to let me work from home starting in January! They won't have to change a thing.\" Rob leaned in. \"So, uh... you know, we've got an extra room. Whaddaya say, sport? We could be a family again! And I think you've imposed on the Talbot's enough already, don't you?\"\n\nIsaac felt Axel's paw squeeze tightly, and he took in a sharp breath. \"A-Axel?\" His boyfriend had gone quiet, and his other paw tensed up on the table, claws making a squeaking sound against the clear glass top. \"Axel, it's okay. Breathe.\"\n\nAxel gasped, like he'd forgotten that he needed to inhale until his boyfriend reminded him. The younger puma looked at his father, shaking his head. \"Dad, I... I don't know. I'm happy here, with Isaac. But I miss you guys too, and I want that too. Can I sleep on it for a while? Please?\"\n\nHis dad gave him a long look, audibly swallowing. Wetting his lips, he gave a pained smile. \"Sure thing, kid. I want what's best for you, to take care of you like I should have done. And I don't want you to wear out your welcome - \"\n\n\"Axel will always, always be welcome here.\" Isaac's smile was as frosty as his tone, his stare flinty and firm. \n\nAxel and his father both looked at the little fox, their eyes wide. Rob reached up and rubbed the back of his neck. \"Well, your parents aren't here, kid. You don't know what they think.\"\n\nIsaac let go of Axel's paw and stood. \"Mr. Stoneheath, I'm glad you came to see Axel. I know it meant a lot to him, and I'm happy you could catch up.\" The fox over-enunciated his words, delivering each syllable with a punch. \"If it is truly his decision to make, then why are you pressuring him? And why are you using me as a reason he should leave?\"\n\n\"I-I... I'm not! I'm just saying he has options that don't involve relying on handouts from strangers! He has a family!\" Rob wrung his paws together, his eyes darting between the frigid fox and his son, who stared at Isaac with wonder.\n\n\"Let me ask you this. If Axel stays here, will you stop being a family?\"\n\n\"Well, no, but - \"\n\n\"Will you still let him come visit, and see you and his brothers?\"\n\n\"Of course! That's not - \"\n\n\"Then tell me, why does it matter if he stays here?\" Isaac turned to face the younger puma, and a warm smile broke his icy demeanor. \"Axel, it's your decision, and I'll be happy and respect whatever you choose. But I don't care if he gives you a million reasons to go - \" \n\n\"I'll give you a reason to stay.\"\n\nIsaac bent down and pressed his muzzle to Axel's, pressing his velvety soft lips to his boyfriend's. After a minute, he broke the kiss, and fixed Axel with a starry-eyed, loving gaze that left the young puma breathless. \"Axel, I love you. I know it's selfish, but I want you here, with me. Please?\"\n\nThe lovers stared into each other's eyes for a long moment, before Rob sighed. \"Welp! I never had a chance, did I?\" The older puma shook his head ruefully and stood. \"Axel, we're making roast chicken next weekend. You and Isaac should come visit; I know the boys miss you terribly.\"\n\nAxel blinked, breaking the spell that held his attention on Isaac. \"O-Oh! Um, Isaac? Would that be okay?\"\n\n\"I think that'd be lovely.\" The fox hugged Axel, then started picking up dishes. \"You two can hang out, I'm just going to take care of these.\"\n\n\"Actually, I'm going to head out. Thank you for having me, Isaac. You make a hell of a breakfast.\" Rob began walking stiffly toward the door. \n\n\"I'll walk you out!\" Axel jumped up, following his dad.\n\nWhen they reached the door, Rob paused for a moment. \"So, Isaac. That little guy sure is fiery, isn't he? I didn't think he had that in him.\"\n\n\"It surprised me too! He's usually pretty shy; well, except around me.\" Axel smiled fondly and gave his dad a hug. \"I'll miss you! Can't wait to see you this weekend!\"\n\n\"You be good to that fox. He fought for you today, and damn it, he won. He's a keeper.\" Then, leaning in to whisper in Axel's ear, \"But it's an open offer. You ever want a room, it's yours, kiddo.\" Releasing his son, Rob opened the front door and walked toward his car. \"See you, son! Think about it!\"\n\nAxel shook his head, watching until his dad was driving away down the street. He closed the door and went back to the kitchen, where Isaac was sitting at the table. The dishes were clean and placed in the dish rack already, and Isaac was staring at them, paws quaking. \"Isaac?\" Axel asked, biting his lip. \"Little fox? Are you okay?\"\n\nIsaac whipped around to face Axel, and his mouth contorted, the beginnings of tears making his eyes shine. \"Axel! I'm s-so s-sorry!\" Then he started sobbing, throwing his arms around his very confused boyfriend and burying his face in Axel's chest.\n\nThe puma gingerly stroked Isaac's soft, furry ears. \"What on earth are you sorry for?\"\n\n\"I-I yelled at your dad! He's gonna hate me now!\" the little fox wailed, muffled by the puma's chest.\n\nAxel gave Isaac a bone-crushing hug, lifting his boyfriend off the ground and swaying back and forth with him. \"I don't think he hates you. In fact, I should thank you!\"\n\nIsaac sniffled. \"What for?\"\n\n\"You stood up for me. Dad was trying to pressure me to live with him, and I might've said yes if it weren't for you.\" Axel thought for a minute, setting the fox down. \"In fact, he tried again before he left. Don't worry!\" Axel raised his paws when a shadow of rage crossed Isaac's face. \"I'm not going anywhere.\"\n\n\"Why not?\" Isaac asked curiously. \"It sounds perfect to me. And he brought up some good points, not that my parents mind having you here in the slightest. But you have a family to go home to, now. Why stay here - oop!\"\n\nThe fox laughed delightedly as Axel scooped him up and carried him upstairs. \"It's like you said. You gave me a reason to stay.\" He kissed Isaac as they crossed into the bedroom. \"Now, how long do you think we have till your parents get home?\" He grinned devilishly, kicking the bedroom door shut with his foot as he tossed Isaac on the bed.\n\nIsaac squeaked happily. \"At least a couple of hours. W-Why do you ask?\"\n\nAxel fumbled with the waist of Isaac's shorts. \"Well, last night was so much fun, I thought maybe we could do it again?\"\n\nIsaac blushed, nodding excitedly. There was plenty of time, and no interruptions for the foreseeable future. \"I love you, Axel.\"\n\n\"Love you too, Isaac.\" Axel drew the blinds and turned off the lights. His heart thumped wildly in his chest as he pulled Isaac's shorts down, and he swallowed audibly. \"Oh, there you are, little fox...\"\n\n...\n\nIsaac pressed himself against Axel's broad back as steaming water cascaded over them. His boyfriend's colossal frame mostly blocked the shower spray, but he didn't care. He planted a kiss between Axel's shoulder blades, nuzzling against the puma as the big cat purred. \"That was amazing, hun. Thank you again.\"\n\n\"You did great, yourself.\" Axel shuffled around and locked lips with Isaac, slipping his tongue into the fox's eager muzzle. \"Get in here. I wanna scrub your back.\"\n\nThe boys soaped up, enjoying the water and the lather. Axel laughed at the sight of the wet fox, but couldn't resist petting him after he blow-dried his fur. \"You're so fluffy right now!\" he cooed.\n\n\"S-Shut up!\" Isaac protested, but didn't make any move to stop his boyfriend's affections. \"Foxes are naturally fluffy; it takes a lot of brushing to make this look decent - oh! H-Hey there...\"\n\nAxel's paw had wandered south, playing with Isaac's soft member. It started to wake up under his touch. \"Mrr. Round two already?\"\n\nIsaac playfully batted his paw away. \"Axel! I want to brush my fur. The last thing I need is for you to make another mess.\"\n\nChuckling, Axel brought out a pair of brushes and handed one to the fox. \"I'll get your back.\"\n\nWashed and styled, the boys walked down to the living room to find Mr. and Mrs. Talbot sitting on the couch. Isaac beamed at them. \"Hey mom, dad! How's Andrea?\"\n\n\"Oh, she's fine!\" Carol smiled at the boys fondly. \"You'll have to see little Charlie, he's the most adorable little kit.\"\n\n\"Isaac was cuter.\" Hugh said, pouting. Isaac raised his eyebrow. \"Well, you were a cute kit! Dunno what happened, you got so big...\"\n\nMrs. Talbot nudged her husband in the ribs. \"I thought I was supposed to be the baby crazy one!\" \n\nHugh scratched his cheek, looking away. \"Yeah, yeah... I'm just sayin'. They're cute at that age.\" The older fox gestured at the loveseat that sat to the side. \"Why don't you boys have a seat? We need to talk. It's nothing bad!\" Mr. Talbot waved his paws, grinning at the boys' panicked expressions. \"But, it is important.\"\n\nSlowly, Axel and Isaac paced over and sat down. A few moments of silence stretched between the four of them before Carol cleared her throat. \"Well! It's getting further along in the year, and we thought it's time that you boys started putting in your college applications!\" She paused, beaming at the boys. When they stared, stupefied, her smile faltered a bit. \"Are you two not excited? I thought you'd be thrilled...\"\n\nIsaac spoke first. \"Well, I guess I am? It's not something I've given much thought to. I already know where I want to go.\"\n\n\"You do? That's great, honey! I didn't know you'd been looking into colleges without us. Where were you wanting to apply?\" Mrs. Talbot leaned in, her smile crinkling the corners of her eyes.\n\n\"I want to go to Grenville Polytechnic,\" the young fox said confidently. \n\nMr. Talbot frowned. \"Grenville? I went there, I don't recall them having much of an English department. Did you decide to go for a different degree or something?\"\n\nCarol nodded in agreement. \"I thought we were looking at the east coast for you. You already got scouted by Columbia - \"\n\n\"Columbia?! Like, the Columbia University? The one in New York?\" Axel blurted out. \"Why the hell would you want to go to a podunk college like Grenville?\"\n\n\"Axel, I...\" Isaac hesitated, looking down at his paws where he'd tented his fingers together. \"Um, I wanted to go to college with you. I'm worried that I'll - \" a tear rolled down his face as his breath hitched. When he continued, his voice was thick and trembling. \"I-I worry that I'll lose you if we split up for college. That's four years, minimum, and I can't risk losing you. I can't... I can't...\" The fox buried his face in his paws, shaking his head.\n\nAxel's mouth hung open, flabbergasted. [i]I knew he was smart, but... Columbia? That's on the other side of the country! And he wants to give that up for me? Me?![/i] \"Isaac? Little fox, look at me, please.\" The puma pulled Isaac's paws away from his face and held them as they locked eyes. \"Isaac, listen to me. Columbia is an opportunity I can only dream of. You've got to give this a chance! I'd give anything to get into their engineering program; it's incredible, and if their English department is even half as good as that, you'd be insane to pass that up. Please, please don't throw this away for someone like me. I'm not worth your future!\"\n\n\"Axel, I don't want a future that doesn't have you in it.\" Isaac withdrew his paws and wiped his eyes with the inside of his wrists. \"You are the sweetest, most caring man I've ever met. You're so good to me, and the thought of us breaking up makes me sick to my stomach.\" Resolute, he thrust his chin out and fixed Axel with a flinty glare. \"Here's the deal. I'm not applying to any college that you don't apply to. You want me to go to Columbia? Fine. You're coming with me.\"\n\nThe puma's face fell. \"Little fox, please, be reasonable. I could never afford to go to Columbia, my scholarship barely covers Grenville. I'm going to be taking out a ton of loans already to live on campus. There's no way I could go to Columbia, love. It's just not in the cards for me. But you... you can do it. You're smarter than me, you have more opportunities, and if they scouted you, then I know that you have scholarships to cover your tuition. Isaac, love, I... I can't do this with you. I'm sorry.\"\n\nMr. and Mrs. Talbot, who had been whispering to each other while watching them argue, finally interjected. Mr. Talbot spoke first. \"Axel, son. Is tuition the only reason you aren't considering Columbia? What's your GPA?\"\n\nAxel blinked rapidly, wondering why Mr. Talbot was asking. The puma responded reflexively. \"Uh, well, thanks to Isaac's help with English, I'm up to a 4.0. I'm a shoo-in for that scholarship, as long as I keep my grades up like this.\"\n\n\"Have you taken your SAT yet?\" Carol asked.\n\n\"No, just the practice ones. We're supposed to take them next month, it's a whole big deal. I've been studying a lot for them.\"\n\nCarol nodded. \"What was your last practice score?\"\n\n\"It was in the high 1400's. Why are you asking me all of this? Not that I mind!\" Axel added hurriedly. \"I'm, um, confused. I don't understand why you want to know.\"\n\nMr. and Mrs. Talbot looked at each other, then back at Axel. Hugh took a deep breath and let it out with a gusty sigh before he smiled at the puma. \"Do you think that if we got you a tutor, you could get your score up to at least a 1500?\"\n\n\"P-Probably? I'm sorry, why are you asking again?\" Axel's eyes narrowed, and he shifted uncomfortably in his seat. Isaac's brow furrowed as well, and the young fox's arms were folded across his chest. \n\nCarol scooted closer and leaned forward to place a hand on his knee. \"Axel, it's clear that Isaac cares deeply for you. I know we've had you here for a little over a month now, and we've come to consider you like family. Hugh and I want to help you. We agree Isaac would be, er, foolish to miss this opportunity. But we want you to have the same chance, so we've decided on a compromise.\"\n\n\"It'll be a lot of hard work, but I'll bet you're used to that.\" Mr. Talbot said, nodding. \"Here's the deal. You work on getting the academics in shape for Columbia. They're strict! And their admission rate is low. But we'll do everything we can to give you a shot at it.\"\n\n\"Then, you'll apply for Columbia with Isaac. If one of you gets in, but the other doesn't, you learn to do long distance until you're done with college. No arguments. But if you get in, we'll help you search for more scholarships and grants to pay for tuition. And whatever you can't cover, Carol and I will pick up the tab for. Don't let a good opportunity pass you by, son. You deserve this, too. Does that sound fair?\"\n\nAxel's eyes were wide, and he jerked his head back. \"Mr. and Mrs. Talbot, I couldn't accept that! You've already done so much for me, I couldn't take more from you! And that's incredibly expensive, I don't even know how I'd pay you back, and I'm not worth it, I - \"\n\nMr. Talbot held up a paw, halting the young puma's rambling. \"We've fostered kids in the past. We always set aside a college fund for them, but not all of them go. The money's already there, just waiting to be used. Axel, it would be our pleasure to help you go to college. And this isn't limited to Columbia. Apply for any college you want, and we'll make sure you get to go. Okay?\"\n\nIsaac lunged at Axel, squeezing him tighter than the puma had imagined possible, and he let out a strained squeak of surprise. His little fox buried his face in Axel's brawny chest, nuzzling him. \"Please...\" he whispered, the sound muffled. \"This is our best shot. Please, Axel. For us?\"\n\nAxel bit his lip, sweating. His father's words from earlier that day echoed in his mind.[i] \"He has options that don't involve relying on handouts from strangers!\" \"I think you've imposed on the Talbot's enough already, don't you?\"[/i] Axel took a deep breath. \"I'll do the tutoring, and I'll apply. But if I need money, I'll ask my dad first. I appreciate it, really! But I've taken an awful lot from your family, and I feel awful about asking for more. I can't do that to you guys.\"\n\nIsaac beamed, and Mr. Talbot nodded. Mrs. Talbot gave a gentle smile and said, \"That's understandable. Just know that the offer stands if you need any help at all. Promise me you'll ask for help if you need it, okay?\"\n\nAxel nodded. \"I promise, Mrs. Talbot. Thank you for understanding.\"\n\nSlapping her paws to her knees, Carol stood up. \"Well, then! Now that we've all been dramatic, I think it's time for dinner! Who wants to help peel potatoes?\"\n\nThe four of them traipsed into the kitchen to prepare dinner. Axel ended up peeling the potatoes while Isaac prepared a pot of boiling, salted water. Carol brought out a cast-iron skillet along with a package of steaks that she'd bought from a local butcher on the way home. She started seasoning the meat while letting it come up to room temperature. Hugh weaved gracefully between them all, almost dancing as he unloaded the dishwasher and cleaned up as the rest of them cooked. \n\nSoon, they were tucking in to pan-seared steaks with buttery home-made mashed potatoes, and a pan sauce made from the meat drippings. Axel couldn't resist the rich, meaty flavor of the steak combined with the creamy spuds, and he shocked the Talbots by bolting his food faster than any of the rest of them. After eating, they booked a tutor for Axel, then watched a movie before deciding it was time for bed.\n\nAxel lay on his back with Isaac draped over his chest, the gesture now as familiar to him as breathing. He relished the feeling of Isaac's warm, silky fur as he traced the tip of a claw along the curve of the slender fox's back. When Isaac let out a huff, he flattened his paw to his boyfriend's shoulder blade, and asked, \"Everything all right, hun?\"\n\n\"Yeah, I guess.\" Isaac shifted to a more comfortable position. \"I just... you know that no matter what, I'm still not applying to any colleges that you don't, right? You're important to me, Axel. I can't - I won't let you go. Not without a fight.\"\n\n\"Isaac, you know that's not - \"\n\n\"I'm not arguing this, Axel. This is my final decision. I just wanted to let you know what I decided.\" Isaac squeezed his arm around the puma's chest and nuzzled in deeper. \"It'll be fine. As long as I'm with you, I don't care where we are, or what we make. All I need is to be with you. I love you, Ax.\"\n\nFor the first time, Axel hesitated for a moment before responding. \"I-I... I love you too, little fox. Get some sleep, okay? We'll talk more in the morning.\"\n\nIsaac quickly fell prey to slumber, but Axel was wide awake. His paws were trembling, and an uneasy, twisting feeling churned in his gut. [i]He didn't listen to a word that I said. Or his parents! He's willing to throw away a chance at one of the best colleges in the country, and for what? Me? I love him so much. And I know how he feels about going to separate schools; it's not like I never thought about it myself. But he's not thinking clearly. Am I... am I going to hurt him because we're together? Are we...\n\nAre we making a mistake?[/i]\n\n...\n\n", "writing_bbcode_parsed": "Axel slept deeply, utterly spent from the previous night's activities. When he dreamed, it was of Isaac, as it had been the last, well, who knows how many nights? However, instead of his usual X-rated dream, Isaac glowed with a gentle white light. It seemed as if it seeped from every tuft of fur on his body, highlighting his trim, delicate figure. Captivated, the puma reached out to caress Isaac's cheek, and Axel took a deep, satisfied breath as warmth flooded him. His eyes half-lidded, he leaned in to kiss his lover, his friend, his little fox  -

Bing-bong!

Axel jumped, startled into wakefulness. With a groan, he shook Isaac's shoulder. "Hey, babe, someone's at the door."

Isaac grumbled, speaking around a yawn. "S'probably a delivery. I bet they're already gone."

Bing-bong! Bing-bong!

"Or not." Isaac glanced at the clock, then frowned. "Who's here at seven in the morning? And it's like exactly seven, too. I'll go see who it is."

"I'll come with you  - "

"Nah, don't worry about it. It's probably some salesperson or something. You stay here and stay comfy. I want more cuddles when I get back." The fox smirked at Axel, pulling on some loose gym shorts and a t-shirt. In his haste, he didn't realize that the shirt was Axel's until he pulled it on. "Oh, whoops. Where's my shirt at?"

"You should wear that!" the puma said hastily. When Isaac quirked an eyebrow at him, he blushed. "Uh, I mean, if you want to wear it, I guess. But you do look really cute. Boyfriend shirt?"

"Smells like you, too. It's like a weird sort of extended hug, but I'm here for it." Isaac rolled his eyes as the doorbell went off again. "Ugh, this sucks. Stay put, I'll be right back."

Axel nodded, and Isaac tromped down the stairs. Looking out the window to the left of the door, he caught sight of a lean arm with tawny fur and black highlights. Weird, that looks like Axel's fur  -  

Isaac's eyes went wide, and he pulled his lips back, baring his teeth. He threw open the door and growled, "Mrs. Stoneheath, you can't be here  - " He blinked. This wasn't Axel's mom. The puma that stood before him was slim, yes, though toned. And definitely a man. "I-I'm sorry, I thought you were... someone else. May I help you, sir?"

"That's all right, I understand. She's really put you two through a lot, hasn't she? You'll be Isaac, I presume?"

The fox's arms went tight to his body. "I'm sorry, do I know you?" he asked, voice clipped

"Oh, goodness, no! But you are dating Axel, yes? This is the right house?" The puma seemed relaxed, curiously looking into the house through the screen door.

"Sir, I don't know how you think you know Axel and I, but what we are to each other is nobody's business but ours. Now, who the hell are you?"

"Oh! Where are my manners? I'm sorry, I'm such a scatterbrain." The man flipped his wrist and giggled. "I'm Robert Stoneheath."

"D-Dad?" Axel's voice quavered. He had come down the stairs, shirtless, in a pair of pajama pants. He rubbed the sleep from his eyes, moving to stand in front of Isaac.

"Axel! My goodness, son, you've gotten so big! Caleb told me you were doing something with football, but this is... wow!"

The younger puma's face contorted as he snapped at his father. "You don't get to come here, acting like everything's okay! You disappeared! For years, we didn't hear from you, not so much as a Christmas card. And now you want to show up here, of all places, unannounced and uninvited, and act like you're still my dad? Where the fuck do you get off?!"

Robert flinched. "I-I texted you last night. I should've waited for a reply, b-but I couldn't wait to see you again. You... you didn't get any of the letters?" The older puma looked like someone had punched him in the stomach. "I sent so many. And presents, too, for your birthdays and Christmas. None of it? I'm sorry, kiddo, I don't understand what could've happened."

Axel frowned. "What do you mean, you sent us letters? I'd have noticed if you sent me  - " The younger puma's voice choked off. "Mom. She never let us check the mail, she'd get super mad if we did. She said it was so she didn't miss anything important..." The younger puma's eyes grew flinty. "Did you really write to us? Look me in the eye and tell me that again; and I'll know if you're lying."

Robert fixed his gaze on Axel's, unwavering, although he was misting up. "Axel, I wrote you and your brothers a letter every week. Your mother won total custody in the divorce, but I never imagined she'd pull something like that." Axel's father sniffled and tears rolled down his cheeks. "I assumed you boys hated me. But I got to see Caleb and Ben  -  I need to talk to you about that too  -  and they told me you were here. I came to see you one more time, now that I know what Vanessa doing to you three. But I swear to you, Ax, I always remembered to write to you. I never gave up hope that I'd get to see you boys again." He wiped his bleary eyes and shook his head. "I'm sorry. I'll go; you're right, I don't have the privilege of being here anymore. What Vanessa was up to should've been obvious, and I didn't even try to fight it."

The screen door flew open, and Axel bolted out of it. The younger puma wrapped his dad in a tight hug, lifting him off the ground. When his dad's feet touched the ground again, the older puma's eyes were wide and misty. His son clapped his paws to the older puma's shoulders and grinned through the tears that flowed down his face. "Dad, it's okay! I believe you. And that's all I needed. You tried. Damn it, I missed you!"

Axel swept him up in another hug, reciprocated by his dad. Isaac stood in the doorway, smiling, his heart warmed by their reunion. The fox cleared his throat to catch their attention, saying, "Hey, it's still early. Do you want to invite your dad in? I can make breakfast while you two catch up."

His boyfriend nodded gleefully. "Yeah! Oh, I mean, can you stay, Dad?"

Robert put his paw on his son's arm and squeezed. "Bud, I've got all the time in the world for you."

Isaac ushered them inside, closing the door before showing Axel's dad to the kitchen. "Mr. Stoneheath, would you like some coffee?"

"You have a lovely home, Isaac. I'd love some coffee. And please, call me Rob. You're an adult, too." Robert flashed a grin, and the fox saw how much Axel took after his dad.

Isaac nodded, a little unsure. "Uh, sure thing, R-Rob. Ah, do you have any dietary restrictions? I was thinking ham and cheese omelets." Axel's dad gave him a thumbs up, and Isaac went to work, brewing coffee and cracking eggs into a bowl.

Rob let out a low whistle. "You lucked out, finding a man that can cook. Barry's hopeless in the kitchen; he always orders out." He waited for Axel to sit before taking the chair across from the young puma. "So, I guess we've got a lot to talk about, huh? It's only been a few years, but it feels like forever."

"I know, Dad." Axel hadn't stopped grinning since Rob came in the door. "Um, so, I guess the big stuff? I'm a defensive tackle on the football team, I'm working on getting a scholarship to Grenville Polytechnic  -  Isaac's helping me bring my English grade up  -  and, heh... turns out I'm gay too. Isaac and I are dating." He looked at the little fox, vigorously whisking eggs while butter sizzled in a pan, and he relaxed, a sigh escaping his lips.

Rob gave Axel a knowing smile. "Oh, kiddo, you got it bad, dontcha? Ah, to be young and in love again. Although I suppose I was the same with Barry when we first met. So, Grenville Polytechnic, huh? That's a pretty competitive school. You have any fallbacks?"

"Oh, er, no?" Axel winced at the question. "For the longest time, it was the only option I had. I needed a good degree so I could support Caleb, Ben and  - " Axel bared his teeth and growled. " -  Mom."

"Okay, son. Breathe. She's out of your life now. She can't hurt you anymore." Rob placed a paw on top of his son's. "You're okay. Have you started therapy yet?"

A bowl clanged onto the floor in the kitchen, and both pumas turned to stare at Isaac, who put a paw to the back of his head and chuckled weakly. "Uh, everything's okay! I'm, uh... clumsy!"

Axel knew his boyfriend was anything but clumsy, and resolved to ask him later. "Okay, little fox! Be careful!" Turning back to his dad, he said, "No, I'm not in therapy. But I'm fine, I don't need it."

"You need it." Rob said flatly. "You went through hell, kid. Your brothers told me you were working to support the house?" When the young puma nodded, his dad clicked his tongue. "And she was hurting you to boot. I have half a mind to... Mmm. No, that's not important."

"Ax, kiddo, you need to talk to someone about this. Otherwise, it's going to fester, and before you know it, you'll be lashing out,  or shutting down, or both. And I don't mean Isaac!" Rob quickly interjected when Axel opened his mouth. "He's not a therapist. He can be there for you, and talk to you, but you need a professional. If money's a problem, I'll pay. Do you need me to set up the appointment for you?"

"Y-Yeah, please." Axel's face flushed, and he looked down at the table, fidgeting his thumbs together.

"All right. I'll see if your school has any resources. Now that you're not living with your mom, I can intervene for you again. I'll call first thing tomorrow. Is the phone number Caleb gave me good?"

"Yes, sir." Axel said morosely.

"Wh - Hey, kid, none of that. I'm not mad. Ax, look at me. Please?" Axel looked up to see his dad's soft, smiling face. "I promise, I'm not mad. You're a kid still, you're still figuring this out. This is what I'm supposed to be here for. We'll take care of it, okay? It'll be fine."

Axel smiled weakly as Isaac arrived with a ceramic mug and three tall glasses of orange juice. "Mr.  -  um, R-Rob, here's your coffee. There's more, but I couldn't balance the pot with everything else."

"Naw, I'm impressed, kid! Where'd you learn to do all that?" Rob picked up his coffee and took a whiff. His eyes brightened as he took a sip. "Damn! And this is great coffee!"

Isaac's cheeks flushed and his ears turned pink. Chuckling, he wiped a bead of sweat from his forehead. "O-Oh, well, my mom owns a chain of diners. I work there in the summer. Henrietta's, if you're familiar with them."

"Your mom owns Henrietta's?!" Axel and Rob shouted in unison. Isaac jumped, nodding slowly. Rob leaned back in his chair and whistled. "Damn! No wonder you can cook."

"Axel can too! He made carbonara for our, er, date last night." Isaac hesitated a moment, then kissed Axel on the forehead, causing him to purr. "It was delicious, too. I may have breakfast down, but Axel's got me beat on dinner  -  SHIT! The omelet!" Isaac dashed to the kitchen, turning the stove off and inverting a pan onto a plate. "It's good! Just a little brown!"

Isaac brought the omelets over and dished them out, Axel noting that he held them the same way Mr. Talbot did when he was trying to show off. The little fox sat down next to Axel and gestured to the food. "Well? Dig in!"

Axel moaned at the first bite. He hadn't realized how hungry he'd been, and the fluffy yet creamy eggs combined with the sharp cheddar and savory, smoky ham were just perfect. He looked at his dad, who had a similar look of bliss. The young puma nudged Isaac with his foot. "You know, we used to go to Henrietta's all the time before Mom and Dad... uh... split." Axel's face fell for a moment before he shook his head, and a smile bloomed again. "It was our favorite breakfast spot. Mom never went; she always said it was too greasy, so it was just me, dad, and the twins. I used to always get the French toast."

"And you always ordered the platter, with sausage, bacon, and eggs." Rob spoke around a mouthful of egg. "And finished before the rest of us even got halfway!"

Isaac raised an eyebrow. "Axel finished first? But he eats so slowly!"

Axel poked at his omelet. "Uh, well, after dad left and food wasn't always... well, I learned to savor my food."

"That bitch!" Rob's face contorted, and he slammed his fist on the table, causing Isaac to jump and Axel to duck his head. "Ah, shit. Sorry, Ax! I'm sorry, I'm not mad at you. I promise I'm not." The older puma set down his fork and rubbed his face. "I-I offered to send money. I kept asking if there was anything you guys needed. She eventually stopped taking my calls. Always turned me down; wanted nothing from `that fag'. I swear, that bitter..."

Isaac rubbed Axel's arm. "It's okay, hun. You're safe."

The younger puma took a shaky breath, blowing it out slowly. "Yeah... I'm okay. Thanks, Isaac." Turning to his dad, he gave a half-smile. "Thanks for trying, dad."

"Sure thing, kid. You just let me know if there's anything I can do for you now. Apparently, I've got a few years of presents to make up for. Now  - " a serious expression formed on Rob's face. "What were you doing that warranted carbonara last night?"

Axel choked on a sip of orange juice and coughed. "N-Nothing! I, er, wanted to make him something special?" It came out like a question, and his dad noticed that.

"No special occasion? You cooked my special date night dinner for no reason?" The older puma's face remained inscrutable, but Isaac caught his mouth quirking up at the corners. "You sure there wasn't anything to celebrate?"

Axel stammered, "N-Nope! N-Nothing at all! Just a normal night in, boring old date!"

"Uh-huh. Did you boys use a condom?" Rob grinned when the younger puma buried his face in his paws, and Isaac groaned.

"You should meet my dad," Isaac sighed. "You're both shameless."

"W-We didn't do... that." Axel mumbled through his paws. "We only did... ugh! Look, we didn't need one last night."

"We have some, though. For when  -  if! If that happens." Now Isaac flushed, and Axel's dad cackled.

Rob wiped away a tear from his eye, sharp fangs exposed in a smile. "Well, I'll stop embarrassing you boys. And Axel? Next time, if you want to keep that stuff a secret from me, don't let it slip that you cooked my patented `ultimate romantic date night dinner' for your boyfriend." He looked sideways at his son and winked. "I knew exactly what that meant."

"Yeah." Axel huffed. Although he looked away, he couldn't stop a grin of pride from spreading across his muzzle any more than he could stop the rosy blush of his ears. He reached out for Isaac's paw under the table and laced their fingers together. "So, uh, Dad. You said you talked to Caleb and Ben?"

The older puma nodded vigorously. "Sure did! And guess what? They're coming to live with Barry and me!"

"No way!" Axel's mouth gaped for a moment before he beamed at his dad. "That's incredible! Oh, but it's right in the middle of the school year..."

"That's all handled. I'll be driving them to school in the mornings. Already cleared it with my boss and everything. They're even going to let me work from home starting in January! They won't have to change a thing." Rob leaned in. "So, uh... you know, we've got an extra room. Whaddaya say, sport? We could be a family again! And I think you've imposed on the Talbot's enough already, don't you?"

Isaac felt Axel's paw squeeze tightly, and he took in a sharp breath. "A-Axel?" His boyfriend had gone quiet, and his other paw tensed up on the table, claws making a squeaking sound against the clear glass top. "Axel, it's okay. Breathe."

Axel gasped, like he'd forgotten that he needed to inhale until his boyfriend reminded him. The younger puma looked at his father, shaking his head. "Dad, I... I don't know. I'm happy here, with Isaac. But I miss you guys too, and I want that too. Can I sleep on it for a while? Please?"

His dad gave him a long look, audibly swallowing. Wetting his lips, he gave a pained smile. "Sure thing, kid. I want what's best for you, to take care of you like I should have done. And I don't want you to wear out your welcome  - "

"Axel will always, always be welcome here." Isaac's smile was as frosty as his tone, his stare flinty and firm.

Axel and his father both looked at the little fox, their eyes wide. Rob reached up and rubbed the back of his neck. "Well, your parents aren't here, kid. You don't know what they think."

Isaac let go of Axel's paw and stood. "Mr. Stoneheath, I'm glad you came to see Axel. I know it meant a lot to him, and I'm happy you could catch up." The fox over-enunciated his words, delivering each syllable with a punch. "If it is truly his decision to make, then why are you pressuring him? And why are you using me as a reason he should leave?"

"I-I... I'm not! I'm just saying he has options that don't involve relying on handouts from strangers! He has a family!" Rob wrung his paws together, his eyes darting between the frigid fox and his son, who stared at Isaac with wonder.

"Let me ask you this. If Axel stays here, will you stop being a family?"

"Well, no, but  - "

"Will you still let him come visit, and see you and his brothers?"

"Of course! That's not  - "

"Then tell me, why does it matter if he stays here?" Isaac turned to face the younger puma, and a warm smile broke his icy demeanor. "Axel, it's your decision, and I'll be happy and respect whatever you choose. But I don't care if he gives you a million reasons to go  - "

"I'll give you a reason to stay."

Isaac bent down and pressed his muzzle to Axel's, pressing his velvety soft lips to his boyfriend's. After a minute, he broke the kiss, and fixed Axel with a starry-eyed, loving gaze that left the young puma breathless. "Axel, I love you. I know it's selfish, but I want you here, with me. Please?"

The lovers stared into each other's eyes for a long moment, before Rob sighed. "Welp! I never had a chance, did I?" The older puma shook his head ruefully and stood. "Axel, we're making roast chicken next weekend. You and Isaac should come visit; I know the boys miss you terribly."

Axel blinked, breaking the spell that held his attention on Isaac. "O-Oh! Um, Isaac? Would that be okay?"

"I think that'd be lovely." The fox hugged Axel, then started picking up dishes. "You two can hang out, I'm just going to take care of these."

"Actually, I'm going to head out. Thank you for having me, Isaac. You make a hell of a breakfast." Rob began walking stiffly toward the door.

"I'll walk you out!" Axel jumped up, following his dad.

When they reached the door, Rob paused for a moment. "So, Isaac. That little guy sure is fiery, isn't he? I didn't think he had that in him."

"It surprised me too! He's usually pretty shy; well, except around me." Axel smiled fondly and gave his dad a hug. "I'll miss you! Can't wait to see you this weekend!"

"You be good to that fox. He fought for you today, and damn it, he won. He's a keeper." Then, leaning in to whisper in Axel's ear, "But it's an open offer. You ever want a room, it's yours, kiddo." Releasing his son, Rob opened the front door and walked toward his car. "See you, son! Think about it!"

Axel shook his head, watching until his dad was driving away down the street. He closed the door and went back to the kitchen, where Isaac was sitting at the table. The dishes were clean and placed in the dish rack already, and Isaac was staring at them, paws quaking. "Isaac?" Axel asked, biting his lip. "Little fox? Are you okay?"

Isaac whipped around to face Axel, and his mouth contorted, the beginnings of tears making his eyes shine. "Axel! I'm s-so s-sorry!" Then he started sobbing, throwing his arms around his very confused boyfriend and burying his face in Axel's chest.

The puma gingerly stroked Isaac's soft, furry ears. "What on earth are you sorry for?"

"I-I yelled at your dad! He's gonna hate me now!" the little fox wailed, muffled by the puma's chest.

Axel gave Isaac a bone-crushing hug, lifting his boyfriend off the ground and swaying back and forth with him. "I don't think he hates you. In fact, I should thank you!"

Isaac sniffled. "What for?"

"You stood up for me. Dad was trying to pressure me to live with him, and I might've said yes if it weren't for you." Axel thought for a minute, setting the fox down. "In fact, he tried again before he left. Don't worry!" Axel raised his paws when a shadow of rage crossed Isaac's face. "I'm not going anywhere."

"Why not?" Isaac asked curiously. "It sounds perfect to me. And he brought up some good points, not that my parents mind having you here in the slightest. But you have a family to go home to, now. Why stay here  -  oop!"

The fox laughed delightedly as Axel scooped him up and carried him upstairs. "It's like you said. You gave me a reason to stay." He kissed Isaac as they crossed into the bedroom. "Now, how long do you think we have till your parents get home?" He grinned devilishly, kicking the bedroom door shut with his foot as he tossed Isaac on the bed.

Isaac squeaked happily. "At least a couple of hours. W-Why do you ask?"

Axel fumbled with the waist of Isaac's shorts. "Well, last night was so much fun, I thought maybe we could do it again?"

Isaac blushed, nodding excitedly. There was plenty of time, and no interruptions for the foreseeable future. "I love you, Axel."

"Love you too, Isaac." Axel drew the blinds and turned off the lights. His heart thumped wildly in his chest as he pulled Isaac's shorts down, and he swallowed audibly. "Oh, there you are, little fox..."

...

Isaac pressed himself against Axel's broad back as steaming water cascaded over them. His boyfriend's colossal frame mostly blocked the shower spray, but he didn't care. He planted a kiss between Axel's shoulder blades, nuzzling against the puma as the big cat purred. "That was amazing, hun. Thank you again."

"You did great, yourself." Axel shuffled around and locked lips with Isaac, slipping his tongue into the fox's eager muzzle. "Get in here. I wanna scrub your back."

The boys soaped up, enjoying the water and the lather. Axel laughed at the sight of the wet fox, but couldn't resist petting him after he blow-dried his fur. "You're so fluffy right now!" he cooed.

"S-Shut up!" Isaac protested, but didn't make any move to stop his boyfriend's affections. "Foxes are naturally fluffy; it takes a lot of brushing to make this look decent  -  oh! H-Hey there..."

Axel's paw had wandered south, playing with Isaac's soft member. It started to wake up under his touch. "Mrr. Round two already?"

Isaac playfully batted his paw away. "Axel! I want to brush my fur. The last thing I need is for you to make another mess."

Chuckling, Axel brought out a pair of brushes and handed one to the fox. "I'll get your back."

Washed and styled, the boys walked down to the living room to find Mr. and Mrs. Talbot sitting on the couch. Isaac beamed at them. "Hey mom, dad! How's Andrea?"

"Oh, she's fine!" Carol smiled at the boys fondly. "You'll have to see little Charlie, he's the most adorable little kit."

"Isaac was cuter." Hugh said, pouting. Isaac raised his eyebrow. "Well, you were a cute kit! Dunno what happened, you got so big..."

Mrs. Talbot nudged her husband in the ribs. "I thought I was supposed to be the baby crazy one!"

Hugh scratched his cheek, looking away. "Yeah, yeah... I'm just sayin'. They're cute at that age." The older fox gestured at the loveseat that sat to the side. "Why don't you boys have a seat? We need to talk. It's nothing bad!" Mr. Talbot waved his paws, grinning at the boys' panicked expressions. "But, it is important."

Slowly, Axel and Isaac paced over and sat down. A few moments of silence stretched between the four of them before Carol cleared her throat. "Well! It's getting further along in the year, and we thought it's time that you boys started putting in your college applications!" She paused, beaming at the boys. When they stared, stupefied, her smile faltered a bit. "Are you two not excited? I thought you'd be thrilled..."

Isaac spoke first. "Well, I guess I am? It's not something I've given much thought to. I already know where I want to go."

"You do? That's great, honey! I didn't know you'd been looking into colleges without us. Where were you wanting to apply?" Mrs. Talbot leaned in, her smile crinkling the corners of her eyes.

"I want to go to Grenville Polytechnic," the young fox said confidently.

Mr. Talbot frowned. "Grenville? I went there, I don't recall them having much of an English department. Did you decide to go for a different degree or something?"

Carol nodded in agreement. "I thought we were looking at the east coast for you. You already got scouted by Columbia  - "

"Columbia?! Like, the Columbia University? The one in New York?" Axel blurted out. "Why the hell would you want to go to a podunk college like Grenville?"

"Axel, I..." Isaac hesitated, looking down at his paws where he'd tented his fingers together. "Um, I wanted to go to college with you. I'm worried that I'll  - " a tear rolled down his face as his breath hitched. When he continued, his voice was thick and trembling. "I-I worry that I'll lose you if we split up for college. That's four years, minimum, and I can't risk losing you. I can't... I can't..." The fox buried his face in his paws, shaking his head.

Axel's mouth hung open, flabbergasted. I knew he was smart, but... Columbia? That's on the other side of the country! And he wants to give that up for me? Me?! "Isaac? Little fox, look at me, please." The puma pulled Isaac's paws away from his face and held them as they locked eyes. "Isaac, listen to me. Columbia is an opportunity I can only dream of. You've got to give this a chance! I'd give anything to get into their engineering program; it's incredible, and if their English department is even half as good as that, you'd be insane to pass that up. Please, please don't throw this away for someone like me. I'm not worth your future!"

"Axel, I don't want a future that doesn't have you in it." Isaac withdrew his paws and wiped his eyes with the inside of his wrists. "You are the sweetest, most caring man I've ever met. You're so good to me, and the thought of us breaking up makes me sick to my stomach." Resolute, he thrust his chin out and fixed Axel with a flinty glare. "Here's the deal. I'm not applying to any college that you don't apply to. You want me to go to Columbia? Fine. You're coming with me."

The puma's face fell. "Little fox, please, be reasonable. I could never afford to go to Columbia, my scholarship barely covers Grenville. I'm going to be taking out a ton of loans already to live on campus. There's no way I could go to Columbia, love. It's just not in the cards for me. But you... you can do it. You're smarter than me, you have more opportunities, and if they scouted you, then I know that you have scholarships to cover your tuition. Isaac, love, I... I can't do this with you. I'm sorry."

Mr. and Mrs. Talbot, who had been whispering to each other while watching them argue, finally interjected. Mr. Talbot spoke first. "Axel, son. Is tuition the only reason you aren't considering Columbia? What's your GPA?"

Axel blinked rapidly, wondering why Mr. Talbot was asking. The puma responded reflexively. "Uh, well, thanks to Isaac's help with English, I'm up to a 4.0. I'm a shoo-in for that scholarship, as long as I keep my grades up like this."

"Have you taken your SAT yet?" Carol asked.

"No, just the practice ones. We're supposed to take them next month, it's a whole big deal. I've been studying a lot for them."

Carol nodded. "What was your last practice score?"

"It was in the high 1400's. Why are you asking me all of this? Not that I mind!" Axel added hurriedly. "I'm, um, confused. I don't understand why you want to know."

Mr. and Mrs. Talbot looked at each other, then back at Axel. Hugh took a deep breath and let it out with a gusty sigh before he smiled at the puma. "Do you think that if we got you a tutor, you could get your score up to at least a 1500?"

"P-Probably? I'm sorry, why are you asking again?" Axel's eyes narrowed, and he shifted uncomfortably in his seat. Isaac's brow furrowed as well, and the young fox's arms were folded across his chest.

Carol scooted closer and leaned forward to place a hand on his knee. "Axel, it's clear that Isaac cares deeply for you. I know we've had you here for a little over a month now, and we've come to consider you like family. Hugh and I want to help you. We agree Isaac would be, er, foolish to miss this opportunity. But we want you to have the same chance, so we've decided on a compromise."

"It'll be a lot of hard work, but I'll bet you're used to that." Mr. Talbot said, nodding. "Here's the deal. You work on getting the academics in shape for Columbia. They're strict! And their admission rate is low. But we'll do everything we can to give you a shot at it."

"Then, you'll apply for Columbia with Isaac. If one of you gets in, but the other doesn't, you learn to do long distance until you're done with college. No arguments. But if you get in, we'll help you search for more scholarships and grants to pay for tuition. And whatever you can't cover, Carol and I will pick up the tab for. Don't let a good opportunity pass you by, son. You deserve this, too. Does that sound fair?"

Axel's eyes were wide, and he jerked his head back. "Mr. and Mrs. Talbot, I couldn't accept that! You've already done so much for me, I couldn't take more from you! And that's incredibly expensive, I don't even know how I'd pay you back, and I'm not worth it, I  - "

Mr. Talbot held up a paw, halting the young puma's rambling. "We've fostered kids in the past. We always set aside a college fund for them, but not all of them go. The money's already there, just waiting to be used. Axel, it would be our pleasure to help you go to college. And this isn't limited to Columbia. Apply for any college you want, and we'll make sure you get to go. Okay?"

Isaac lunged at Axel, squeezing him tighter than the puma had imagined possible, and he let out a strained squeak of surprise. His little fox buried his face in Axel's brawny chest, nuzzling him. "Please..." he whispered, the sound muffled. "This is our best shot. Please, Axel. For us?"

Axel bit his lip, sweating. His father's words from earlier that day echoed in his mind. "He has options that don't involve relying on handouts from strangers!" "I think you've imposed on the Talbot's enough already, don't you?" Axel took a deep breath. "I'll do the tutoring, and I'll apply. But if I need money, I'll ask my dad first. I appreciate it, really! But I've taken an awful lot from your family, and I feel awful about asking for more. I can't do that to you guys."

Isaac beamed, and Mr. Talbot nodded. Mrs. Talbot gave a gentle smile and said, "That's understandable. Just know that the offer stands if you need any help at all. Promise me you'll ask for help if you need it, okay?"

Axel nodded. "I promise, Mrs. Talbot. Thank you for understanding."

Slapping her paws to her knees, Carol stood up. "Well, then! Now that we've all been dramatic, I think it's time for dinner! Who wants to help peel potatoes?"

The four of them traipsed into the kitchen to prepare dinner. Axel ended up peeling the potatoes while Isaac prepared a pot of boiling, salted water. Carol brought out a cast-iron skillet along with a package of steaks that she'd bought from a local butcher on the way home. She started seasoning the meat while letting it come up to room temperature. Hugh weaved gracefully between them all, almost dancing as he unloaded the dishwasher and cleaned up as the rest of them cooked.

Soon, they were tucking in to pan-seared steaks with buttery home-made mashed potatoes, and a pan sauce made from the meat drippings. Axel couldn't resist the rich, meaty flavor of the steak combined with the creamy spuds, and he shocked the Talbots by bolting his food faster than any of the rest of them. After eating, they booked a tutor for Axel, then watched a movie before deciding it was time for bed.

Axel lay on his back with Isaac draped over his chest, the gesture now as familiar to him as breathing. He relished the feeling of Isaac's warm, silky fur as he traced the tip of a claw along the curve of the slender fox's back. When Isaac let out a huff, he flattened his paw to his boyfriend's shoulder blade, and asked, "Everything all right, hun?"

"Yeah, I guess." Isaac shifted to a more comfortable position. "I just... you know that no matter what, I'm still not applying to any colleges that you don't, right? You're important to me, Axel. I can't  -  I won't let you go. Not without a fight."

"Isaac, you know that's not  - "

"I'm not arguing this, Axel. This is my final decision. I just wanted to let you know what I decided." Isaac squeezed his arm around the puma's chest and nuzzled in deeper. "It'll be fine. As long as I'm with you, I don't care where we are, or what we make. All I need is to be with you. I love you, Ax."

For the first time, Axel hesitated for a moment before responding. "I-I... I love you too, little fox. Get some sleep, okay? We'll talk more in the morning."

Isaac quickly fell prey to slumber, but Axel was wide awake. His paws were trembling, and an uneasy, twisting feeling churned in his gut. He didn't listen to a word that I said. Or his parents! He's willing to throw away a chance at one of the best colleges in the country, and for what? Me? I love him so much. And I know how he feels about going to separate schools; it's not like I never thought about it myself. But he's not thinking clearly. Am I... am I going to hurt him because we're together? Are we...

Are we making a mistake?

...

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