Fang smiled, his amber eyes sparkling with warmth. "Talon," he acknowledged, stepping into the apartment. He turned to Kev, his gaze softening. "You look lovely tonight."
Kev blushed, a shy smile playing on his lips. "Thank you, Fang," he replied, gesturing towards the couch. "Come sit with us while I finish my coffee."
Fang settled onto the couch beside Kev, his gaze sweeping across the room. "The apartment looks nice," he complimented, his voice a low rumble. "The piano sounds good, too."
Kev nodded, pleased by Fang's approval. He quickly got up and poured a cup of coffee for the wolfman, remembering his preference for it black. He handed the mug to Fang, their fingers brushing briefly, a subtle spark of electricity passing between them before sitting back down.
Fang took a sip of the coffee, a contented sigh escaping his lips. "Ralph's going to visit tonight," he announced, a hint of amusement in his voice.
Kev raised an eyebrow, curious. "For business?" he inquired.
"Business and pleasure," the wolfman replied with a wink.
Fang finished his coffee in one swift gulp, setting the empty mug down on the table. "Excuse me for a moment," he said, rising from the couch.
He disappeared into the bathroom, leaving Kev and Talon alone in the living room. Kev noticed Fang peeking into his bedroom before closing the bathroom door, a curious expression on his muzzle.
A few moments later, Fang emerged, his expression relaxed and refreshed. "Ready to eat, my little assistant?" he asked, a playful smile on his face.
Kev's heart skipped a beat at the endearment. He stood up and leaned in, pressing a soft kiss to Fang's cheek. "Lead the way, big guy," he replied, his voice a gentle murmur.
Fang's arm draped possessively over Kev's shoulders as they made their way out of the apartment. Talon, ever vigilant, turned off the player piano, closed the windows, and locked the door behind them. He then followed the pair, his silent presence a reassuring shadow in the dimly lit hallway.
The club was already starting to buzz with activity, the early crowd trickling in, eager to escape the mundane world and immerse themselves in the seductive allure of Club Fang. As they descended the stairs, Kev couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement, Ralph, the dapper mallard-man, had seemed to put Fang in a good mood… when he wasn't antagonizing the wolf.
As Fang and Kev settled into their usual spot at the VIP area, a sense of familiarity washed over Kev. The plush booth, the soft glow of the chandeliers, the distant hum of conversations and laughter - it all felt strangely comforting, a haven.
Rebecca, her feline grace and warm smile a welcome sight, approached their table. "Good evening, gentlemen," she greeted them, her voice a soft purr. "How can I help you tonight?"
Kev, remembering her excitement about her day off, couldn't resist asking, "How was your day off, Rebecca?"
Her eyes lit up, a genuine joy radiating from her. "It was wonderful, Kev," she replied, her voice a melodic trill. "I got to have dinner with my family, catch up on some much-needed sleep, and even visit the park." She paused, a wistful smile playing on her lips. "It was... perfect."
Kev's heart warmed at her happiness. "I'm so glad for you, Rebecca," he said sincerely.
Rebecca's smile widened. "Thank you, Kev," she replied. "Now, what can I get you two to eat?"
Fang, his gaze fixed on the bustling crowd, barked his order without hesitation. "Steak and eggs, rare and runny," he demanded, his voice a low rumble.
"Just a salad with grilled chicken for me, please, Rebecca," he requested.
"Coming right up," Rebecca said with a nod, her tail swishing playfully as she disappeared into the crowd.
Kev, feeling a surge of affection, leaned into Fang, his head resting comfortably on the wolfman's shoulder. The memory of Fang's parting words the night before, "my love," echoed in his mind, a sweet melody that brought a smile to his lips. He couldn't help but feel a sense of hope, a belief that their connection was deepening, evolving into something more than just a boss and his assistant.
"Fang," he began, his voice a soft murmur against Fang's fur, "I talked with Cindy today."
Fang grunted in acknowledgment, his gaze still fixed on the growing crowd. "That's nice," he replied, his tone distracted.
Kev chuckled softly. "She seems to think we're going to get married or something," he teased, a playful glint in his eyes.
Fang's head snapped towards Kev, his eyebrows furrowed in surprise. "Really?" he asked, his voice a low rumble. "I'll need to have a talk with her."
"I thought it was nice," Kev admitted, a shy smile playing on his lips. "I told her we're still getting to know each other, but..." He trailed off, his gaze meeting Fang's.
Fang's expression softened, a warmth spreading through his eyes. He reached out and gently squeezed Kev's hand, a silent reassurance. But before he could say anything, Rebecca arrived with their food and drinks, her arrival an unfortunate interruption to the intimate moment.
"Here you go, gentlemen," she purred, placing the plates on the table with her usual grace. "Steak and eggs for you, Mr. Fang, and a lovely salad for Kev."
Fang nodded in acknowledgement, his gaze returning to the bustling crowd. "Thank you" he said, his voice clipped.
Kev, his appetite momentarily forgotten, watched as Rebecca disappeared into the throng of patrons. He turned back to Fang, his heart filled with a mix of anticipation and uncertainty. What did the future hold for them? Would their connection deepen, blossom into something more? Or would the demands of Fang's world, the constant pressures and dangers, ultimately tear them apart?
Fang attacked his steak and eggs with his usual gusto, the sounds of his enthusiastic eating filling the otherwise quiet booth. Kev, in contrast, found himself savoring his salad, enjoying the fresh flavors and crisp textures.
Once he finished, Kev lit a cigarette, the familiar smoke curling lazily upwards as he relaxed into the plush cushions.
"Did Talon get into any trouble today?" Fang inquired, picking his teeth. "Or that sister of his?"
"Not today," Kev replied with a chuckle. "I introduced them to Asmodeus earlier."
"That's good," Fang said, a relieved sigh escaping his lips. "Vlad may be a good sport, but if Talon had attacked Asmodeus, there would be feathers everywhere."
Kev laughed, picturing the scene: the flamboyant toucan flapping and squawking in panic while Talon stiffly walked towards him. It was a humorous image.
"We still need to meet Kaiote," Kev reminded Fang, "but that's it for the managers. Sabrina will meet Rex and Reepia eventually, I'm sure."
Fang frowned, a hint of frustration in his voice. "That crow has been locked up out there for over a week," he grumbled. "If I had any clue as to what she actually does, I'd be out there making sure she was working." He shook his head, muttering something about computers and their incomprehensible complexities.
Kev chuckled, taking another drag from his cigarette. "Well, she must be doing a good job if she hasn't had anything to report," he pointed out. "No news is good news, right?"
Fang's expression softened slightly. "I suppose you're right," he conceded with a sigh. "It's just... one less thing for me to have to worry about."
Kev leaned closer, his hand gently resting on Fang's arm. "Exactly," he said, his voice a soothing murmur. "Be grateful for the peace and quiet, Fang. You deserve it."
Time seemed to accelerate in the bustling club. An hour slipped away in a blur of laughter, music, and the clinking of glasses. Kev, comfortably nestled in the VIP booth, watched Dale expertly navigate the crowded bar, his hands a blur as he mixed and poured drinks with remarkable speed and precision.
Kev's attention was drawn to the entrance of the VIP section, where a familiar figure was approaching. Ralph, the dapper mallard man from the previous night's dinner, strode confidently towards the velvet rope, a muscular badger man trailing behind him.
Talon, his posture rigid and alert, stepped forward to intercept them. He looked down at Ralph, his sharp eyes assessing the situation. "Good evening, gentlemen," he greeted, his voice a low rasp. "Can I help you?"
Ralph flashed a charming smile, smoothing back his sleek feathers. "Good evening" he replied, his voice a smooth quack. "We're here to see Fang."
Talon's gaze flickered towards Fang, who was deep in conversation with Kev. Fang, sensing the commotion, glanced up and gave a subtle nod.
Talon stepped aside, allowing Ralph to pass, but his arm extended to block the badger man's path. "I'm sorry, sir," he said, his voice firm, "but only Mr. Ralph is allowed in the VIP section at this time."
The badger man bristled at Talon's challenge, his growl echoing. Talon's feathers ruffled in response, his stance mirroring the badger's aggression.
"Relax, Brice," Ralph interjected. "Go get yourself a drink at the bar. This is a safe place."
Brice shot Talon one last menacing glare before turning and heading towards the bar, his heavy footsteps shaking the floor.
Ralph approached Fang and Kev, a charming smile on his face. "Fang, my friend!" he exclaimed, extending a webbed hand. "Good to see you." He turned to Kev, his smile widening. "And to you, the miraculous assistant." He took Kev's hand and brought it to his beak, placing a gentle kiss on his knuckles. "Good to see the old wolf hasn't scared you off yet."
Fang growled, watching his old friend greet Kev. "Not yet," he replied, his arm tightening around Kev's shoulders. He snapped his fingers, summoning Rebecca. "Order whatever you want, Ralph," he said generously. "Rebecca, make sure Reepia knows this is the duck's order. She'll want to handle it personally."
Rebecca nodded, her eyes sparkling with amusement. "Right away, Mr. Fang," she replied, disappearing into the bustling crowd after writing down the mallard's order.
Ralph settled into the booth, his gaze sweeping across the room. "Your staff seems to be in a good mood tonight, Fang," he observed.
"They just started a new schedule," Kev explained, a hint of pride in his voice. "One day off a week."
Ralph's eyes shot open in surprise. "A day off?" he echoed, his voice incredulous. "Why on earth would they need a night off? The club's open every night, isn't it?"
Kev patiently explained the concept of work-life balance, highlighting the benefits of rest and rejuvenation for both the employees and the business itself. He spoke of increased productivity, improved morale, and the potential to attract and retain top talent.
Ralph listened intently, his expression a mix of skepticism and consideration. "Well, I'll be," he finally said, shaking his head. "You humans certainly have some... peculiar ideas."
Fang chuckled, a low rumble that vibrated through the booth. "Unconventional, maybe?" he remarked.
"Indeed," Ralph agreed, his voice laced with a playful chuckle. He then reached into his pocket and pulled out a small, intricately carved wooden box. He slid it across the table towards Kev.
"Fang is impossible to buy for," Ralph explained, his tone lighthearted, "so I thought you might appreciate a little gift."
Kev's eyes widened in surprise and gratitude. "Thank you, Ralph," he said, carefully opening the box.
Inside, nestled on a bed of velvet, was a dense, amber-colored block of what Kev recognized as weed oil. It was far larger than anything he'd ever seen before, its potent aroma filling the booth with a sweet, tangy scent.
"Wow," Kev breathed, his eyes wide with amazement. "This is... a lot."
Fang leaned closer, a mischievous grin spreading across his face. "Do you know what it is?" he asked, his voice a low rumble.
"Yes," Kev replied, his voice a mix of awe and excitement. "But I've never seen this much before."
Fang chuckled, his chest rumbling with amusement. "It's a fine gift, Ralph," he said, his gaze lingering on the potent concentrate. "Thank you."
Ralph nodded, a satisfied smile playing on his lips. "I wanted to get you something special to celebrate your success with the… recent deal you closed with those VIPs," he explained. "And it seemed like your little human here enjoys the occasional indulgence."
Fang's grin widened. "He does," he confirmed, his arm tightening around Kev's shoulders.
Ralph leaned back in his seat, a thoughtful expression on his face. "I haven't seen you in so many years, Fang," he said, his voice tinged with a hint of nostalgia. "Your visit last week... It reminded me of the good old days. It seems your little human has helped you regain some of your... spark."
Fang's grin turned into a playful scowl. "I never lost it, duck," he retorted, his voice a low rumble. "But Kev here is definitely my good luck charm." He looked down at Kev, his eyes softening. "Would you like to try some of this oil?" he asked, gesturing towards the box.
Kev hesitated, a flicker of uncertainty crossing his face. "I don't think I can, I've got no way to smoke it," he admitted, his voice a soft murmur.
Fang laughed, a deep, hearty sound that echoed through the booth. "We'll get Horns over here," he said, waving at the bartender. "He's an expert in these matters."
Ralph grinned. "How's the big brute doing, anyway?" he asked, his voice filled with genuine affection.
"Horns is the same as always," Fang replied with a shrug. "Reliable, loyal, and always ready with a joint and a bad joke."
"That's good to hear," Ralph said, nodding in agreement. "He's a good man, that moose."
Fang raised his hand, catching Rebecca's eye. "Waitress," he called out, his voice commanding, "could you fetch Horns for us?"
"Of course, Mr. Fang," Rebecca replied, disappearing into the crowd.
Ralph's sudden laughter boomed across the VIP table, his eyes tearing up. "Hey, remember that time those strippers were trying to get you drunk?" he cackled, slapping his webbed hand on the table. "And that short tomcat told you to pay him or he'd break your hands!"
Fang scowled, taking a long sip of his drink to hide his embarrassment.
"If Horns hadn't pulled you off him, you would've probably killed him," Ralph continued, his laughter echoing through the booth. "And then you swung at Horns! You should've seen your face when you realized what you did! I wish I had a camera!"
Fang's scowl deepened. "That was a long time ago, duck," he grumbled. "And if I remember correctly, you were the one who hired those strippers and didn't pay… You know I don't even care for ladies."
Ralph's laughter only intensified. "It was your birthday, Fang!" he wheezed, wiping a tear from his eye. "I was just trying to make it memorable… didn't I?"
Kev, amused by the playful banter between the two friends, chuckled. "It does sound memorable," he agreed, a smile playing on his lips.
"Don't worry, Kev," Fang reassured. "Ralph won't be invited to my birthday."
Ralph burst into quacking laughter once more, his voice echoing through the booth. "You know I'll find out when and where it is, Fang," he retorted, his eyes twinkling with mischief. "And I'll be sure to not pay male strippers this time!"
After a minute of collecting himself, Ralph concluded, "this human has really mellowed you out, and I love it."
Fang's ears flattened against his head. "What do you mean by that, Ralph?" he asked, his tone a mix of amusement and challenge.
"Just look at you," Ralph said, gesturing towards Fang with his wing. "Sitting here, talking, enjoying a quiet drink. You've always been too high-energy to sit still. When we were younger, it was fine, but now..." He paused, his gaze shifting to Kev. "The wolf hasn't left the club in years, Kev, because he'd just get into fights everywhere he went."
Fang growled, his fur bristling slightly. "I have no patience for idiots, Ralph," he retorted, his voice a low rumble. "I don't need to give the city more ammunition to use against me and my property."
"What has it been, three or four years?" Ralph continued, a hint of concern in his voice. "This self-imposed isolation has turned you into a cult figure out in the city. People have made up all sorts of rumors about you,."
Fang shrugged, his expression nonchalant. "Let them talk," he said dismissively. "I didn't leave simply because I didn't want to. The club is my life, my sanctuary."
He took a sip of his drink, his gaze drifting towards the dance floor, where the energy was starting to build.