Second Chance (PAW Patrol AU)

Chapter Twenty

It was a late, cool fall afternoon. Weeks after Rocky's incident, everything had gone back to normal. It was nearing fall break and would soon be winter. Rocky did better and better in school and was considering starting the accelerated program after winter break.

Everest opened her clinic, much to the joy of Marshall. Unfortunately for him, he didn't have a big enough bed for the both of them, which meant Everest had to find an apartment. It also meant Marshall was out of the firehouse most of the time.

Skye, Rubble and Zuma continued their firefighting missions alongside their lovestruck chief. Skye had a near fatal experience when her helicopter ran out of fuel, but she was able to land it safely and without any harm.

Chase had finally joined the force after much debate. Although he had said he would do it, he was scared, though he didn't want to admit it. It took a late night talk with Marshall and Rocky to convince him.

Donned in his uniform, Chase stared at himself in his bedroom mirror. Wow, he thought. This is actually happening. For years, he had regretted that day, hating and beating himself up for it. But now, he was being accepted back on the force. Technically, he was a rookie, but there was no doubt in his mind he could climb the ranks with ease.

Marshall's suggestion of keeping his pistol locked in a safe was a great idea. They kept it in the garage, hidden from Rocky. Chase would never allow him to see him armed. He didn't want that image imprinted on him.

"Good morning, handsome," Skye whispered into his ear. Chase felt his heart jump as she kissed him passionately. "You look amazing, honey."

He kissed her back, only to pull back shortly after. "I have to go, sweetie."

"Please be careful," she said, looking deep into his eyes. "Please."

"I'll be home for dinner, like always." He kissed her once more. He stood up and opened their door. Rocky fell into the room. "Rocky?"

"H-hey, Dad..." he said sheepishly. "Hi Mom."

"Were you eavesdropping, young man?" Chase crossed his arms. Rocky had a lot more curious recently. He'd soon be 13. Chase grew more and more anxious about giving him 'the talk'. He didn't know what Rocky knew, or didn't know, already and that scared him. "You know that's wrong."

Rocky smiled innocently, then frowned. Chase knelt down to his level, his face straight. "D-Dad?" Rocky was getting nervous.

"I'm sorry too, son," Chase said as he raised a hand.

"Dad, please! No!" Rocky cried, but it was too late. The hand came down and soon, Rocky had tears of joy in his eyes as he wriggled in Chase's arms. "S-stop!" he laughed. "Pl-ple-please!" Chase chuckled loudly, continuing his tickle assault. "I-I'm sorry!"

Chase stopped, picking up the giggling boy and placing him on the bed. "And?"

"I won't eavesdrop again," Rocky laughed, starting to calm down.

"Promise?"

Rocky looked at him. He looked at his uniform up and down before pulling Chase into a hug. "Only if you promise to come home tonight," he whispered.

Chase wrapped his arms around him, returning the hug. "I promise, buddy," he whispered. "Go get dressed for school. Scott's gonna be here soon."

"Right!" Rocky ran back down the hall, shutting the door behind him.

~~~

Rocky was called to the principal's office before lunch. He walked casually. "Hey Ryder." Ryder have him a serious look. "Sorry, Principal Ryder."