*Summer-9 years ago

Z-zero! Gadget giggled. 

Currently, it was summer. Vacation from school for Gadget started and him along with Zero sat under a tree by the lake. While the wolf brought a book to read, the jackal had been running around and climbing trees; both enjoying the warm weather.

Now though, Zero had decided to take a break from his playing and came to bother Gadget instead. The boy in glasses sat to read, but felt lips on one of his ears, so the said distraction, worked.

The red wolf didnt mind as he folded a corner of the page and placed the book to the side before snuggling into the black fur. A smile of adoration shined on Zeros face. Arms wrapped around the crimson body to bring the two closer.

Done running? 

Zero hummed as he gave a peck to Gadgets forehead. For now Though Id be just fine staying here.

Me too.

As if to answer that request, the jackal gripped the wolf slightly and picked up his body just enough so they could lie beside the tree instead of sitting against it. The action hadnt been expected, but it only made Gadget laugh in delight before lightly kissing Zeros nose.

Youre so strong.

Hm, well, I still have a long way to go since Im young, he smiled at the other, But Im strong enough for the both of us for now.

Yep! You sure are, pearly white teeth shined as a grin in agreement was given.

By the way, Zero started.

Hm?

What book are you reading? I see you read quite a bit for school, but schools out now, so I was curious.

Sun-like eyes sparkled as if Zero had just asked the best thing in the world. It was really adorable.

Most books I read are for school. Most school subjects are a bit boring except for science, and history. As for this book, its called, The Mysterious Case of The Beaver Clan. Its a mystery book where detectives Herlock Olmes and Dade Tatson go to a strictly beaver village and try to figure out the mystery behind a murder that took place. It seems like theres a secret or something fishy going on in the town that hasnt been discovered yet. Its so interesting!

It does sound pretty neat, Zero replied with a chuckle, You know what fascinates me more?

Whats that?

You.

Gadget quickly found the jackal on top of him, straddling his hips. His tan cheeks darkened as he saw the suggestive expression on the others face. He didnt fight back. Lips covered lips.

The wolfs digits reached up and weaved through white locks, pulling the ebony male closer to his body, and drawing a soft moan out of him from the action.

Lips drew back for breath as he stared down at Gadget, seeing those golden orbs gazing right back up at him. One of Zeros gloved hands reached and stroked Gadgets cheek, drawing out a sigh of bliss.

I never knew I could feel this way, the jackal mumbled.

Though the words were almost silent, the wolfs bright red ears heard, and he smiled, Me neither. This is all pretty new for me.

Same, he continued to stroke his face gently, Is this feeling love? Like the romantic kind? Jackals dont really talk about it much, but Ive heard some about romance.

Hmm Gadget thought a moment, I think so. Im not sure what else this feeling could be. To explain it a bit, romantic love is supposed to be rare, and that the one you feel it towards is special to you and irreplaceable. I think of you that way.

Irreplaceable? A hum left Zero, I think my pack is irreplaceable, but, I think you are too. My pack is also special to me, but, youre more so Zero paused, Youre so precious to me that I just wanna keep you all to myself.

Grinning brightly, Gadget responded, I feel the same. I cant imagine the world without you in it. Itd be a lonely world if you werent here.

...Really?

Yep! Gadget nodded, And youre my world.

Lips were captured in a passionate kiss. The action drew out a deep groan from the wolf that only made it harder on Zero to control himself.

Lets head back, the jackal breathed out, I wanna kiss and snuggle with you at home. I want some privacy.

Laughing, Gadget nodded before both Mobians stood and left the lake area.



Evening came as Zero sat by the window to gaze out at the setting sun and Gadget laid on the floor reading his book; resting his head on the jackals lap. The silence stretched but the two were content.

Do you want to go somewhere?

Huh? The wolf hummed, looking up, Whatd you say? Sorry, I was reading and missed it.

Smiling, Zero repeated, I asked if you wanted to go somewhere.

Go somewhere? Im not sure if theres anywhere to go. This town isnt that big.

I was meaning more, Zero paused, Out of town.

You mean like visiting another town, or camping?

Mixed colored eyes brightened, Camping!

Gadget chuckled at Zeros enthusiasm.

I havent slept outside in so long! Excitement clear in the jackals tone, I love that idea! Lets go camping!

I dont particularly mind, the wolf replied, But we dont have sleeping bags or a tent.

Pft, we dont need that. I got this covered. All we need to bring are a couple of blankets and pillows. We can share just as we do here. And we dont need extra supplies or anything. I know how to make a campfire.

You do?

Yep! He grinned, Now we just need to figure out where we want to go.

Sometimes, people like to camp out by the lake, Gadget suggested.

Nodding, Zero gave a huge grin, Sounds perfect!

-

This spot looks good! 

The jackal pointed to a wide open space by the lake. Some trees were nearby but there was plenty of room so a fire could be started without catching any of the surrounding nature. 

Finding the perfect location, Gadget set up the bedding while Zero went to get sticks and then start a fire. Once all was set up, the two took a seat next to each other by the fire, looking out towards the gentle waves. 

The night was beautiful, and stars twinkled in the sky at them. Snacks and water bottles that Gadget managed to smuggle from the kitchen were placed out so they could eat or drink if they wished.

This is beautiful, Gadget commented, a hand seeking one of Zeros before holding it, You know, I went camping with my parents some.

Heterochromia eyes looked away from the stars to face him and listened. How was it?

Oh, I hated it. He laughed.

Really? The jackal asked in astonishment, I love camping.

I hated it at the time because I preferred to be indoors, either reading a good book, or watching my dad work on inventions, his expression became downcast, I wish I wouldve appreciated that kind of stuff more back then.

... 

Thoughts soared to the past, reminiscing about what was or what could have been. Warmth spread around his chest and shoulders as he was then held in a hug. Glancing over, Zero gazed at him seriously, eyes looking intently into his own. Lips brushed his cheek.

Youre not alone anymore. Im here. So we can enjoy the things we do now, with each other.

The wolf smiled sweetly, now giving a kiss to that precious white mouth softly. Ive enjoyed everything with you, and always look forward to the next day with you.

He stared straight into the jackals eyes. I love you Zero.

Shock filled Zeros expression. Sure, theyd talked about it earlier, but hadnt distinctly said it so bluntly like that. Still, his eyes became half lidded as he leaned closer. 

I love you too, my dear Gadget.

Cupping the others cheeks gently, Zero pushed his lips against the wolfs own, passion radiating through. Gadget groaned as he wrapped his arms around the jackal in an embrace. Shifting their weight, Zero caused them to fall on their sides.

I love you so much 

Zero drug out before slipping his tongue into the unsuspecting mouth. Humming in pleasure, Gadgets tongue played with Zeros inside his oral crevice; touching, probing, and exploring.

Pulling away for breath, pants left the two boys before each giving matching smiles.

**Further away, out of site 

Hows it looking boss? One voice asked as two beings were stationed in a tree.

The second one held binoculars, looking on ahead through the trees and towards the lake. A grunt was sounded.

Theres either one of two possibilities. Either hes one cruel manipulator, or hes gotten too close with one of the locals.

Eyes widened at that comment. Were talking about that little shit that doesnt trust anyone, right?

Yes, the second voice answered, He might be different and difficult, but he was never mean spirited.

So

So, the boss isnt going to like this.

...Shit.