They Grow Up Too Fast (Paw Patrol)

Fish In The Sea

After the party, the sun begins to set, and Zuma, as promised, waits by the cliff's edge. He's nervous about sharing what's on his mind but knows he can't keep it bottled up forever. Liberty notices Zuma sitting alone and remembers his invitation. With curiosity clouding her thoughts, she quickly makes her way over to him.

Liberty: "Hey, Zumo. You wanted to talk?"

Zuma smiles at Liberty's nickname for him. He usually doesn't like nicknames, but when it comes to Liberty, he doesn't mind. She's special to him.

Zuma: "Hehe, yeah, I did."

Liberty smiles, but her nerves are running wild as she anticipates what Zuma is about to say.

Zuma: "You know, when I look out at the water, I see so much more than just water."

Liberty is a bit surprised by Zuma's comment, but she decides to listen.

Liberty: "Really?"

Zuma: "I see a whole world out there, full of life. You know the saying, 'There's plenty of fish in the sea,' Liberty?"

Liberty: "Yeah, I hear it all the time in Adventure City. There are a lot of lonely people there. I overhear conversations about it sometimes."

Zuma takes a deep breath, gently takes Liberty's paw, and looks her in the eyes. Liberty is stunned, frozen in place by the intensity of the moment. She'd always felt like she was in the background or a third wheel. Looking at Zuma's paw holding hers, she decides to squeeze back and locks her gaze with his hazel eyes, so easy to get lost in. Eagerly, she waits for his next words.

Zuma: "Well... I think you're my fish."

Liberty smiles, her eyes beginning to glisten with tears.

Liberty: "I know. You're my fish too, hehe."

Zuma grins.

Liberty: "I've always felt so connected to you, Zuma. Ever since we first met, you've been on my mind. At first, I thought it was just a phase, something I could brush off. But I've never felt this way about anyone else before. I didn't understand it, so I tried to ignore it... but I never truly could. And I'm glad I didn't. If I had, I wouldn't have realized that you're the one for me. That's you, by the way, hehe. You're the one I want to... be with."

Zuma's eyes start to water. For once, the moisture isn't from the ocean—and he's not complaining.

Zuma: "Hehe, you're really something else, Liberty. When we first met, I felt this instant connection. That's why I was the first pup to approach you. I was so nervous, but I'm glad I did. I worried that maybe this connection wouldn't last, but it has. I think that's a sign, hehe. But don't worry, we don't have to make this... official right now. I just needed to say it. I couldn't hold it in anymore. Most pups might've kept quiet, but I've always been a bit more outgoing, hehe."

Liberty laughs softly. As she continues holding Zuma's paw, a wave of euphoria washes over her. She's never felt this way before. She never even realized she could love someone this much.

Liberty: "I know, but if you really want to start this... I'm all in. But only if you are. I couldn't stand seeing you upset, hehe."

Zuma chuckles.

Zuma: "Hehe, knowing me... I'd say... yeah."

Liberty's smile grows. Her heart has wanted this for so long, and now it's finally happening.

Liberty: "I guess it's decided then."

She leans into Zuma, resting her head on his shoulder. He mirrors her movement, leaning his head against hers as the sun sets, giving way to the quiet of the night.

*****

Unbeknownst to Zuma and Liberty, Chase had noticed something brewing between them. Knowing they planned to meet, he had been observing from the Lookout Tower. Chase couldn't help but smile, happy to see Zuma so content. Zuma had always seemed left out of missions, a reality that saddened Chase. He hated seeing a friend sidelined, but Ryder made the decisions, and Chase doubted he could change that. Besides, Zuma probably wouldn't enjoy being brought along if it meant sitting idle. Still, seeing Zuma find happiness in Liberty was heartwarming. Chase knew Zuma had always been more of a lone wolf, rarely talking to anyone except maybe Rocky. This newfound connection was just what he needed. Thinking about Zuma's situation made Chase reflect on his own love life. Both he and Skye had confessed their feelings for each other, but they hadn't made anything official. Suddenly, an idea struck him.

Chase (to himself): "I'll make it official with Skye on her 9th birthday!"

Skye's birthday was only five days away. She'd be turning 9 soon, and after that, only one year of service with the Paw Patrol would remain before she'd have to retire. Chase wanted to make things official so they could retire together and start the family they'd talked about. The thought of becoming a dad made Chase shudder slightly. He couldn't help but think about... certain activities that would be required to have a family. It was a weird thought, but it was what Skye wanted, and he was determined to make her happy. Suddenly, Ryder's voice came through the speaker system.

Ryder: "Alright, pups, time for bed. You all deserve a good rest. Don't worry about missions until after Skye's birthday. After that, we'll need to get back to work. Good night, pups!"

Chase yawned, his tiredness overtaking his overthinking. His bed looked especially inviting after the ordeal with Orion. With a smile on his face, he lay down, ready to give Skye his all on her special day.