Chapter Text
For the longest time, Alex couldn’t put his finger on why.
Back as a cub, whenever he and his friends snuck into the public library, he would find himself pausing at the sight of the marble lions guarding the grand stairway.
Not in awe, not in childlike wonder, not even out of New York pride. Just staring, like someone familiar caught his eye even though he couldn’t fathom who.
Back then, the answer would always slip away, whether from his friends calling him or some random nearby noise of the city jolting him back. Being so young at the time, he’d seen no reason to consider the pattern of loss frustrating.
Now, fully grown and knowing better, he couldn’t help but chuckle in fond amusement as he stood decked in human clothing to blend amongst the unknowing humans, all to see this place – or rather these two statues – one more (though he hoped not last) time before the circus left.
Patience and Fortitude – or “Pie Sense and Fort Dude”, as Anthony called the towering lions when the little cub had asked. Even then, the cat could tell the bird had not had all his facts straight. Of course, what else had been new?
Regardless, Alex couldn’t help but recall those misnomers with a fond smile many years later.
Yet another reason he’ll miss this crazy city.
Out the corner of his eye, the sun could be seen dipping behind the buildings. Well, time to head out.
With a half-smile, he gave the ever-watchful statues a two-fingered salute.
“Be seeing ya, guys."