Archive of Our Own

You may not think so, given his free-spirited nature, but Maximilian “Max” Goof is actually very pragmatic when it comes to finances. He owes it to three contributing influences. The wise teachings of his dad, seeing firsthand the many failed schemes of his best friend P.J.'s dad Pete and what not to do in business and finally learning the art of money from the teachings of a certain grouchy Scottish duck who is the grandfather of a certain passionate yet loudmouth duck godfather of his. Even as a kid Max was always pinching his pennies; saving up every allowance dollar he possibly could towards whatever he was determined to buy with his own money. And college was no different.

Max wanted to make quadruple certain that he had more than enough money to cover the cost of tuition, books, supplies, food and whatever other expenses he may incur when he, P.J. and Bobby head off to college come spring of next year. Even though his extended family were generous enough to offer to write personal checks to cover his college costs and then some – Max politely turned them down. He wanted to cover this himself. Do for himself. And that meant putting in the work. Which meant finding a job in order for him to be able to work.

So here he was. Standing in front of the local job board outside of the Spoonerville Gazette as his eyes scanned over the various fliers pined to the board in order to find a good part-time job that was hiring as quickly as possible and paying decent enough money for a nineteen-year-old. Separating the obvious scams and the fliers that were basically ramblings from weirdos wanting someone to come and visit them, the Labradoodle was beginning to feel disheartened. Normally he would reach out to his other godfather and work at his restaurant – but he hired all of the part-time help he needed and didn't have any openings. Not even for a dishwasher.

“Come on. There has to be something here...” Max muttered to himself as he searched over the job board for the eighth time. Surely he overlooked something.

“Heya, Max!” Called out a voice from behind the young man. He turned to see who spoke to him and smiled at the sight of his best friend P.J.

“Hi P.J. What's up?” Max asked.

“I came to see if you wanted to go check out this new bakery that just opened up down the street. Bobby is holding a place in line.” P.J. said.

“Thanks, but I gotta find a job still. Can't exactly buy chocolate croissants with no money.” Max said with an awkward grin, pulling out his empty jean pockets to emphasize his point.

“Aw come on, dude. We'll treat you! You've been stalking this job board for the three days straight.” P.J. said.

“I know, but this is important to me Peej. I have to make sure that I'm totally covered for college next year. You know I don't like to take my chances with money.” Max said.

“Yeah, I know. Still, Max, you can't just camp out here. And college is just one more year away. So we still got time to take it easy.” The tuxedo cat pointed out.

“That's true. Tell you what. Let me look at the job board one last time, and if I don't find anything, I promise I'll come and meet you and Bobby at that new cafe.” Max said.

“Sounds like a deal to me! And it'll be our treat. See you there, Max!” P.J. exclaimed happily as he gave his best friend a quick hug before briskly walking down the street to go in the direction of where the new bakery was. Max then turned his attention back to the job board and resumed his search.

“Alright, let's try and see if there's anything...Huh?” Max questioned aloud when something caught his eye, and he can't believe he only just now noticed it.

A flier that was legal-sized, so it already stood out as the biggest among all of the small square or letter sized fliers. Another thing about the paper that really made it stand out was the color. Instead of it being white or even a light grey color it was a vibrant shade of orchid purple. Lastly was the lettering. It was all spelled in glossy, black cursive and looked like it was written from an actual calligraphy pen.

Max could hardly believe what he was looking at. Seriously, how did he miss such a thing before? Still he moved to get a closer look at the fancy flier and proceeded to read off it. From top to bottom it said the following,

Hello, darling. Are you experienced at serving tables and over 18? Are you keen on hobnobbing with elites for a night? Do the flashing lights and melodious songs of club life appeal to you? Then this job fits you better than a size six little black dress. We're in need of a waiter who can tend the guests of our fine establishment the Fabulous Dare. In addition to being over 18 years-old, you must be comfortable with wearing a costume for your entire shift. Don't worry – you'll get on the job training by the best workers in the business. You can also expect to get big bucks in tips along with a sizable paycheck at the end of the night.

Interested? Visit the address below and ask for Lady Victoria. Come up and see me sometime.

After he finished reading the flier, Max blinked a few times. Then he cocked his head in thought as he weighed his options. On the one hand this could just be an elaborate prank. After all he distinctly doesn't recall seeing this flier until now. To say nothing of the fact that he never heard of such a place of business as Fabulous Dare before. On the other hand – the idea of a job that offered both a paycheck and tips was too good to pass up. Plus, the idea of being in a new scene was pretty cool...

“What the Hell? I've got nothing else to lose. And it's just forty minutes into the big city. What could go wrong?” Max asked himself as he took the flier then made his way down the street to meet his friends at the bakery.

Little did the young man know, though, that that question would set the tone for an adventure that he had no idea was in store for him.

Later that same day Max took a taxi to the ritzy, upstate part of town where Fabulous Dare was located. When he asked if Bobby or P.J. knew about they said that they didn't know. To Bobby it sounded like a game show pitting supermodels against each other in a game of extreme sports-based truth or dare. And P.J. said that it sounded like the name of a Mexican restaurant that's theme revolved around whether customers would or wouldn't have extra hot salsa with their food based on a dare system. Given the fact that Max would be working as a waiter the tuxedo cat's idea was a bit more plausible, but Bobby's was funnier. Still – the Labradoodle was eager to find out either way what Fabulous Dare was all about.

“Alright, pal. We're here.” Said the middle-aged Boxer taxicab driver as he stopped in front of the address.

“Thanks a lot. Here you go.” Max said as he paid the man his fare.

“No problem. Say, uh...it's probably no business of mine, but are you auditioning?” The Boxer asked.

“Huh, auditioning? Oh! You meant for the waiter job. Yeah, I'm here for the interview. I guess I'm not the only one who heard about it. I hope it's still open.” Max said, now looking worried.

“Waiter? Ah. So that's what they're callin' it nowadays, eh? Well no skin off my nose. Whatever floats yer boat, son.” The Boxer said with a shrug.

“What? I don't understand what you mean, sir.” Max said, slightly tilting his head in confusion.

“Don't worry, sonny! No need to explain it to me! I just never heard that new code phrase before. You better hurry on in. I don't want to make you miss your interview.” The Boxer said, looking over his shoulder to give a supportive thumbs up. But the way he said 'interview' just seemed odd somehow. Regardless Max mentally shrugged it off and smiled back.

“Well, thanks again for the ride.” The young man said as he exited the cab.

“Hey! When you go in there, and if you see a Maine Coon named Francine workin' in there, could you tell her that Davy says we're still on for next Saturday?” The Boxer, Davy apparently, asked with a hopeful look.

“Oh, sure. I'll keep an eye out for Miss Francine.” Max said with a smile and a nod.

“Much appreciated, sonny! You take care now. And hey, if Francine is working there just tell her to call me and I'll drive ya back home. Good luck!” And with that, Davy drove off and Max waved him off.

“Wow, what a sweet guy. Kinda strange, but still sweet. Alright. Let's take a look at Fabulous Dare.” Max said to himself and turned around to get a proper look at the building he was standing before.

From the outside alone – the building definitely lived up to its name. The Rococo architecture made it stand out among the more modern art deco and postmodern style buildings. It was something of a 'stocky' sort of building. It was shorter than the taller offices, shopping boutiques and restaurants along the sidewalk but it was very side – about fifty yards. And it had slightly elevated steps covered with a red carpet that led up to a pair of elaborate, carved metal doors. But the real draw was the marquee sign settled just above the door. The sleek lettering alone was a stark contrast to the old-fashioned architecture but somehow it fit the overall look of the place. It spelled out the name of the establishment, Fabulous Dare, and next to the lettering was what looked like a woman blowing a kiss. If it wasn't daylight Max was sure the marquee sign would be glowing bright colors and making an animation of the motion. After inhaling and exhaling for a moment, the Labradoodle puffed up his chest with confidence and headed in.

“You got it, Goof!” Max thought confidently to himself. He walked up the carpeted steps before he finally made his way to the doors. The young man took note, now that he was closer to the doors, that the carvings in the metal doors were swans on either side coming to meet with their beaks touching. It was a pretty cool design. The place has style, if nothing else. Max knocked on the door, trying not to be startled at how the motion seemed to reverberate over the front of the building. After a good five seconds the large metal doors opened with a loud yet oddly welcoming sound creak. And when they opened two things greeted Max's ears and eyes.

What greeted his ears was the cacophony of people chattering, various movement and lots of singing happening in the background from inside the building. And what greeted his eyes was a very tall Maine Coon in a sleek, strapless black dress with a slit that went all the way up to their right hip and voluminous brunette hair. The feline looked down at Max with sharp expression for a moment before their gaze softened into a kind smile.

“Afternoon, little love! You seem a tad lost. Looking for directions?” The Maine Coon asked in a baritone New England accent. Max blinked in surprise for a moment, then shook his head to snap out of it before clearing his throat.

“A-Ahem, no! I'm not lost...er, ma'am. Actually, I'm here to apply for the waiter position. I saw your flier back in my hometown. And I wanted to speak to Lady Victoria, if she's here.” Max said, pulling out the flier from his backpack and holding it up to show as proof.

The Maine Coon's eyes widened slightly in surprise at seeing the flier, then their face broke out into a wide smile as they clapped their hands together in joy.

“You are?! Holy mother of giant Marines, thank God! We were starting to think no one would ever see that ad! We sent someone out to place it on the job board last week. But wouldn't you know that obnoxious punk had hearing as slow as molasses and only heard 'week' and just assumed we meant to post the job next week. Ugh! Some people.” The Maine Coon explained in a rush, flipping their bangs in a dramatic fashion as they let out an exasperated sigh. Then they gasped in realization before giving a curtsy to Max. “Ah! But where are my manners? I'm Francine – hostess and the second prettiest face you'll see here at Fabulous Dare.”

“Oh, you're Francine? The taxi driver who dropped me off was a Boxer guy named Davy. He says that you're still on for next Saturday. And that you can call him to get me a ride home.” Max explained. At this the Maine Coon, Francine, gasped once again as her eyes shined brightly at hearing the name.

“Really?! Oooh, that sweet old romantic! Thank you for telling me, little love. But enough of that. You're here for a job! Come in, come in!” Francine said excitedly as she grabbed Max's arm with a professionally manicured hand and pulled him inside.

“Whoa!” Max exclaimed in surprise as he was pulled in, the metal doors slamming behind him with a definitive sound.

As soon as he got inside, the cacophony of sounds that Max first heard became louder and more apparent. And so did the things and people that were making said sounds. Anthros of all species, shapes and sizes were all moving about doing various things – be it waiting on customers, working at the bar to the left, the grill to the right or performing on the stage smack dab in the center in the back of the room. To say nothing of the dozens of people moving past Max and going in and out of various rooms, going up and down the grand staircases on either side. This place was just spectacular inside as it was outside.

“Stick close to me, little love! Can't have you getting snatched up~!” Francine instructed in a sing-song voice as she led the way to the hostess stand.

“R-Right.” Max said as he followed Francine and stood next to her.

“Just a moment. I'll call the boss lady and let her know you're here about the job.” Francine said as she picked up the handset of the black rotary phone then proceeded to spin in the numbers for the person Max assumed was the boss lady the Maine Coon spoke of.

As Francine waited for line to be picked up, Max took the time to look around the place more. It really was something. The décor was definitely something to behold. It was so different. Crazy yet still maintained a certain kind of level of sophistication. The kind of place where you could have cut loose even if you were in a dress or a suit. Max was surprised he's never heard Peg mention this place, as it seemed like the kind of ritzy establishment she'd want to visit.

“But there's something about this place...Something that I can't quite put my finger on. Not anything bad. Just the theme of it. Like I should know the theme, but I can't remember what it's called.” Max thought to himself, stroking his chin in thought as he watched the waitstaff serving customers or chatting among themselves on the sidelines, taking note of their elaborate dresses. Before he could think any further, though, he felt a tap on his shoulder. The Labradoodle jumped slightly and turned around to see Francine smiling down at him.

“Lady Victoria will see you now! Follow me up these stairs, little love.” Francine said, gesturing to the staircase across the foyer and lead the way with Max following. “By the way, what's your name? I'm sure you're tired of me calling you 'little love' and all.”

“Oh, no. I'm used to people calling me stuff like that. But the name's Max.” The young man replied with a smile.

“Max, huh? What a cute little name. I don't suppose your friends call you Maximilian?” Francine asked.

“Heh, yeah they do. But the short version is just fine. Unless I have to use Maximilian for the job, anyway.” Max said.

“Oh, don't worry. With how things work here, you won't have to use either name.” Francine said.

“What? How come?” Max asked in surprise. At this the Maine Coon turned around and gave a little smile and a wink.

“Don't worry! The boss lady will explain everything.” Francine said then turned stopped at a large cherry wood door with a fancy silver door knocker. She grabbed the door knocker and rhythmically knocked on it before calling out. “Oh Lady Victoria! I have our new waiter out here to see you!”

There was no response from the other side of the door for a moment, then Max could hear muffled voices. After a while he then heard footsteps approach the door and watched as Francine stepped back and saw the door being opened from the inside. Standing on the other side was a Bullmastiff who looked to be a few years older than him, probably twenty-five or so. He was wearing a black bespoke men's suit with no tie and the sleeves rolled up. He also had medium length dark brown hair that was kept nice and neat – but one single strand seemed to stray away from the rest of his locks. And while his posture looked relax Max couldn't help but notice that the guy's face just seemed to have a fixed, angry scowl.

“Why do you have to keep knockin' like that, Francine? It's a door. Not a drum.” The Bullmastiff said with a deadpan expression.

“Ah, but you know I can't resist the allure of that gorgeous silver door knocker Junior! Anyway, I sadly can't engage in our fun daily little quip sessions. I've brought the boss lady's appointment. This is Max.” Francine said, stepping aside so that the Bullmastiff could better see the job hopeful. The Bullmastiff, Junior as it turned out, turned to look at Max who waved at him with a friendly smiled.

“That so? Hm...well he looks like he'd fit the uniform, if nothing else. But does he have the finesse that the cabaret calls for?” Junior asked to Francine. Max felt a pang of offense at the remark yet managed to stop himself from reacting.

“Lady Victoria wouldn't have called him up if she didn't think he did. Now don't be rude, Junior. Let the dear lad in! Good luck, Maximilian!” Francine exclaimed cheerily, pinching Max's left cheek as she shook his face before turning on her heel and swishing off back down the stairs.

“Th-Thanks...” Max trailed off with a stutter, rubbing his sore cheek.

“Heh. Maybe you do have what it takes to work here. Most people would've fallen down from one of Francine's pinches.” Junior replied with a chuckle as he stepped aside to let Max walk into the room.

“Ha, ha. Guess you could say I've built up a tolerance for cheek pinching. You should meet some of the aunts on my dad's side of the family. They have nails that would make the claw machine look like food tongs.” Max replied with a laugh.

“No foolin'? Tch, and I thought I had it bad.” Junior said as he led Max to where a person was standing before a trifold full-length mirror surrounded by golden accents. “Hey, dad. Here's the newbie.”

Max blinked at Junior, then turned to look at the person he had spoken to. From the back – it looked like a muscular woman in a red sequin dress with long platinum blonde hair that went past her shoulder blades, apparently checking over her make-up. But then why would Junior call this woman 'dad'? The Labradoodle quickly got his answer as the 'woman' turned around to face the young men. Another Bullmastiff just like Junior was, and given how similar they looked Max could see that there was a familial resemblance. But for him to call this 'woman' dad...

Aha, thought Max. Now everything was making sense. The elaborate dresses and make-up of the waitstaff, the familiar atmosphere of the establishment that he couldn't describe before, the way the taxicab driver Davy asked if he was 'auditioning' and how he said the word 'interview', the very name of the business itself and why Junior referred to the 'woman' as dad.

Fabulous Dare is a drag cabaret. Max couldn't believe that he didn't realize it right away. He's seen drag performances before at the House of Mouse from working many a summer job in the past as a busboy. To say nothing of the instances where Pete and his dad, usually doing so because he got roped in by his old friend, have walked a mile in literal heels. They were even headliners for such drag performances at his godfather's restaurant once before. Now that he finally understood what kind of place this was, somehow Max felt more comfortable. It didn't make him feel weird or out place or anything like that. He was just glad to finally have an idea of what kind of business he'd be working for. And really? This place looks like it'd be fun to work at. With a more confident smile Max held out his hand to the drag queen, giving a slight bow.

“Hello, ma'am. I take it that you're the esteemed Lady Victoria Francine told me about. It's very nice to meet you. I'm Max Goof, and I'm here about the waiter job.” Max said. The drag queen looked at Max's hand, then back at him. For a moment he thought perhaps he was too formal or something. But finally, Lady Victoria gave a soft chuckle and took Max's hand and shook it.

"Esteemed, huh? Never had anyone call me that before. That's a new one to scratch off my bingo card. It's a pleasure to meet you, Max. I am indeed the esteemed Lady Victoria. But just Victoria or Boss Victoria is fine, to keep it short." Lady Victoria said, giving the young man a warm smile as he shook his hand. Max sighed in relief that he hadn't accidentally offended the proprietress and smiled even wider.

"That works for me. So, what do you want me to do for the interview?" Max asked.

"Nothin'. The job's yours already." Lady Victoria said as she walked past Max and went over to her office desk.

"S-Seriously? Just like that?" Max asked, somewhat taken confused.

"Just like that. Look, kid. You don't get to where I am not knowing how a person operates from how they act and the way they carry themselves. Even the way they shake hands. Believe it or not, that blow snortin' detective wasn't off the money about that." Lady Victoria said as she pulled out a pack of cigarettes and a black cigarette holder from her desk drawer.

"You could really figure me out from just our handshake?" Max asked again, now sounding equally surprised and impressed.

"My dad isn't your average anthro, Max. Not even for a drag queen. He can tell what you had for breakfast from just looking at the crumbs on your chin." Junior said with a proud smirk as he walked over to stand by his father, taking out a golden lighter.

"Tch! Don't go exaggerating, Junior. I don't mean nothin' like that. I just keep my eyes open, my nose up and my ears to the ground. When I looked at your shoulders, I was looking at your posture. You're well balanced and graceful. You speak with confidence and respect, but you do it without being a kiss-up." Lady Victoria explained as she took out a cigarette from the pack then put it in the black cigarette holder.

"Wow. That's really amazing. So, what about the handshake?" Max asked as he watched Junior light his dad's cigarette in the holder. The drag queen inhaled the smoke stick before letting out a long puff of smoke. Then she looked to Max with a smile.

"The handshake clenched everything. Strong, steady palms that have held up more than their fair share of heavy platters and dishes. But there was also a certain gentleness in your fingers that tell me you could hold a champagne flute without breaking it." Lady Victoria replied.

"Well, I have worked at my godfather's restaurant as a busboy a few times as a summer job." Max said with a modest smile and a chuckle.

"What'd I tell ya? My old man is practically a psychic." Junior said, grinning even wider.

"Quit exaggerating, I told ya." Lady Victoria scolded as she flicked Junior in the ear.

"Ow! What, a son can't compliment his father? Sheesh. You see what I have to deal with, Max? I don't get no respect." Junior said with a feigned look of hurt to Max who chuckled.

"So, I really have the job?" Max asked hopefully.

"I don't see any other Max Goof here." The drag queen said with a wink.

"Yes! Thank you so much, Boss Victoria! I promise that you won't regret this. And I can start training right now!" Max exclaimed joyfully, shaking the older Bullmastiff's manicured hand.

"Ha, ha. No problem, kid. But before all that you need to look the part." Lady Victoria said as she gestured to Max's casual attire.

"Oh, right! The ad mentioned a costume. What's it like? A full-sized animal suit like at the fun houses?" Max asked curiously.

“Not exactly, but you're half right with the animal part. Don't worry, though. Angelique will get you all set up. Junior, take Max to wardrobe backstage. After he's got his new uniform have Francine give him the rundown of the place.” Lady Victoria said as she took another drag of her cigarette.

“Right, dad. Let's go, newbie.” Junior said and walked to the door with Max following right after him.

“Oh, and Max?” Lady Victoria asked.

“Yeah?” The Labradoodle asked back, stopping and turning around to face the drag queen.

“It's alright if you don't, because we'd just make one up, but we don't really go by our usual names here. Got any aliases in mind that you can use while you're working the floor?” Lady Victoria asked.

Max paused for a moment, then hummed as he actually thought of it. Suddenly an epiphany struck him, making his eyes widened a bit and his lips break into a little smile. He then looked back at Lady Victoria and replied.

“Actually, yes. Maxence. That's my French name that I got from my mom's side of the family. I'm a Labradoodle, you see.” Max explained. Lady Victoria gave a hum herself, nodding her head along to the explanation.

“Maxence. Not too plain, not too fancy. Close to your real name and easy to remember. I like it. Well then, Maxence, welcome to Fabulous Dare. I'll let the gals in the print shop know to get your new name tag ready.” The older Bullmastiff said.

“Thanks, Boss Victoria! Thank you so much! I promise I won't let you and the rest of the queens down.” Max said with a wide smile. Junior gave his dad a smile from behind the younger man which Lady Victoria returned as she nodded to Max with the same smile.

“I'm sure you'll do great, kid. Now scram. I got a bunch of things to do.” Lady Victoria said as she made a halfhearted shooing motion at the young canines.

With that, Max followed Junior out of the office and headed down to wardrobe with the biggest smile on his face. He was in such a rush of joy that he finally got a job after weeks of searching that nothing could harsh his buzz. Not even the excessive face pinching and cooing all of the drag queens made over him as Junior introduced them to their new little coworker. Thankfully the Bullmastiff gave a few warning growls to scare them off and told them to get serious before calling for Angelique. The drag queen in question was a vivacious Southern Belle of a Tamworth pig who had a distinct Georgia accent, which was surprisingly natural. It reminded Max of that one particular woman from that comedy show Peg and Pistol like to watch about those four elderly women who live together in Miami and, despite their age, live very actively and dish out sick comebacks.

“Angelique, this is Max Goof. He's Maxence when he's working. Boss Victoria hired him as the new waiter. He needs a uniform so take his measurements and get him sorted so Francine can give him the lowdown.” Junior instructed.

“Why I declare, aren't you just the most darlin' thing! And a Labradoodle no less! I haven't one'a you since my daddy's prized stud won the Kentucky Derby back when I was a fresh-faced little thang. And just look at them teeth. They're like sugar cubes~!” Angelique cooed, gently poking at Max's buck teeth as she fawned over him. Completely ignoring the other canine. But while Max took the attention in stride – Junior took the lack of attention with great offensive and growled.

“Angie! Did you hear a damn word that I said!? Max needs...!” Junior started to explain again until Angelique helped up a painted, polished hoof finger to cut him off.

“Hush, child. My ears are cute but they ain't decorations. I heard you just fine. I've been taking measurements since you were half the size of a bust mannequin when you were born, I'll have you know. I took one look at Maxence and I already have his size down to his lil' old ankles.” Angelique stated with a confident flip of her strawberry blonde ponytail.

“Tch, whatever. You could have said so from the start. Well after you're done here just come up front and look for me. Then I'll get Francine. Sound good?” Junior asked to Max.

“Fine with me. Thanks a lot, Junior. You're a cool guy.” Max said with a smile.

“You say that now, honey, but just wait until you actually get to know the peckerwood.” Angelique said to Max in a not-quite whispering tone that Junior still heard, making the younger canine stifle a chuckle while the older one growled and flipped off the Southern Belle.

“Bite me, Angelique! Just get his measurements and get him into a uniform!” Junior shouted then turned on his heel and stomped off.

“I hope Junior isn't actually mad.” Max said with a slight chuckle.

“Oh 'course not! That's just how we all play with each other here, Max honey. And Junior especially knows how to dish it out and take it. He's all bark and no bite with us. Don't let that grumpy face'a his fool you. But enough of that! Let's get you prettied up!” Angelique exclaimed and grabbed Max's arm then proceeded to drag him off.

The rest of the day became a blur as Max was fussed over and fitted for his new uniform. When he saw the costume that he would be wearing, the young man was taken aback. And when he saw the accessories, it became clear what Lady Victoria meant when she said that Max was 'half right with the animal part'. While he did feel a pang of embarrassment, given how the outfit would leave him feeling somewhat exposed, Max steeled his nerves and wore the uniform with pride as he tried it on. He's come too far to back out now. And he won't let a little outfit ruin his shot at good money. Especially after Lady Victoria, Junior, Francine, Angelique and everyone else was so kind to him.

After getting fitted for his new uniform and getting his name tag, the name Maxence written in an elegant calligraphy that would've made his biological mother Vanessa smile, Junior took Max to meet with Francine again. The Maine Coon proceeded to give Max the grand tour of Fabulous Dare from the kitchen to the basement to the dressing rooms to the powder rooms to the garage to the band stand and every other place in between. Once the Labradoodle was properly familiarized with the cabaret, Lady Victoria proceeded to give Max his work schedule. And true to his word Davy came at the request of Francine to take him home.

The rest was a pleasant blur after that. Max began working at Fabulous Dare as the newest waiter and immediately caught the attention of many a patron. They all became enraptured by the warm energy of sable black furred Labradoodle that was Maxence. And Max was able to further charm customers with his natural French speak – which got him even more tips from the cultured crowd. Max was on cloud nine as he added more to his college pot. He was even able to save up enough to get a new fishing rod for his dad as a surprise present. And on top of that Lady Victoria put him as head waiter for the big charity event they're having this coming Thursday. Max couldn't say yes fast enough. Once again – nothing could harsh his buzz.

...Or so he thought.

That Thursday...

Fabulous Dare was packed all to wall with posh guests from every ritzy corner of Spoonerville, and even some from a few corners of the world. Anyone who was anyone turned out in their evening's best for the Annual Dare to Be Generous Charity Gala. A quarter of the profits from every raffle ticket bought would go to the foundation in charge of preserving the rain forest. And patrons who personally donated got extra raffle tickets towards the grand prize of a private performance from Lady Victoria. Max could hardly believe the turn out as he looked at the thousands of guests from inside the kitchen. So many posh looking men and women entering in and being greeted by Francine at the hostess stand, who looked stunning in her emerald green evening dress. A quarter of them didn't even look like regular rich people. They looked like royalty. He hoped that he didn't screw this up get tongue-tied in front of the more intimidating bunch in his section.

“Max? Are you okay?” Asked a voice from behind Max, and he turned around to see a fellow waiter looking at him with a concerned expression. An otter around his age named Tyler but went by the alias of Abalone when he was working the floor.

“Oh! Hi, Tyler. I'm alright. Just a bit nervous about how many blue bloods we have tonight. I hope I don't do anything to embarrass myself.” Max said.

“That's what you're worried about? After you've been the best waiter we had in ages? Max, you worry over such silly things! That's like rain wondering if it's wet enough.” Tyler said with a crooked smile. At hearing this Max's nerves eased a bit and he gave a smile in return.

“Heh, heh. I guess that's true. Still. Anything could happen tonight, you know?” Max asked.

“True, but that doesn't mean it has to be anything bad. Anything good could also happen. Like meeting Mrs., or Mr., Right as you pass out champagne and martinis.” Tyler said with a wink.

“Ha, ha, ha, ah-hyuck! Somehow I don't think that's going to happen, but thanks anyway Tyler.” Max said, then took a deep breath as he grabbed a tray of drinks and masterfully held it on one hand. “Welp. Ready to hop to it, bunny boy?”

“You bet!” Tyler exclaimed as he grabbed another tray. Both the canine and the otter nodded to each other one last time and then exited from the kitchen, their heels clicking in unison from tile to hardwood as they made their way onto the main floor.

Now, you may probably be a bit confused as to why Max said 'bunny boy'. Well you see, it has to do with their waiter's uniform. To put it quite plainly; it's a Playboy bunny suit. Fishnet stockings, a mini tie, puffy white cottontail with matching long ears, a form-fitting leotard and of course four-inch sleek pumps. While Max felt a bit embarrassed to wear the outfit at first, he reasoned that pretty much everyone here didn't know know him as Max Goof. They only knew the French speaking Labradoodle named Maxence. So he didn't have to fear anyone he knew spreading word of his part-time job around his neighborhood. He even went the extra mile to look even more distinct by actually styling his hair, deciding to tap into the standard poodle side of his late mother's heritage. And while he didn't go for the full make-up look like the drag queens did Max did allow Angelique to apply some eye shadow and tinted lip gloss. When Max, or rather Maxence, looked in the mirror he felt every bit the pretty poodle that little vain part of him told him he was meant to be. And the drag queens certainly were elated in seeing this side of the Labradoodle. Lady Victoria was also impressed by how Max could go from a casual skater to a cute bunny waiter, but she did express some sage old advice to him before the guests of tonight's charity gala started rolling in.

“You're in prime form tonight, Maxence. And it won't go unnoticed. Both by your best customers and the worst customers that you don't want. Now – bunnies are cute and fluffy, but what else are they known for?” Lady Victoria asked.

“Uh, kicking?” Max asked back, not totally sure how to answer. At this the drag queen chuckled and patted him on the cheek.

“Heh. Good answer, kid. Worse comes to worst, those heels ain't just for making you taller. Give 'em a lasting impression, if you catch my drift. Or if you believe in that pacifist junk, you can just call for Angelique. She'll any troublemakers out.” Lady Victoria replied.

“Got it, Boss Victoria.” Max said with a smile, feeling a slight twinge of worry as he hoped he'd never have to call Angelique for such a thing.

The memory brought a smile to Max's face. It was nice to have a boss who had his back, just like Uncle Mickey would. Perhaps he could see about introducing her and Junior to him and Minnie. Max was sure they'd get along nicely if they had a chance to chat. But that's something he can ponder on for another time. Right now he had drinks to serve and patrons to charm. With every drink he passed out and every 'Bonsoir' he spoke, guests were practically eating out of his hands. Even people who weren't in Max's section were asking about the 'pretty Labradoodle bunny waiter who speaks French'. While he was flattered by the attention he had to keep focus. He didn't want to falter and lose focus. Especially not on his first night as head waiter.

As Max went to the kitchen to grab another tray of shrimp scampi to serve out, Francine suddenly burst in behind him.

“Hold that thought and the scampi, little love! You have a special request to serve one of our VIPs!” Francine stated.

“What? A VIP guest wants me to wait on them?” Max asked in surprise.

“Yes! Apparently he's had his eye on you since he came here, and he moved his usual VIP booth just to sit in your section. Said he wanted to meet the 'famous Maxence he's only caught glimpses of' and such.” Francine explained. Max felt a blush creep to his face at the explanation and scratched the back of his neck.

“Wow, I can't believe a VIP wants me to serve them. What did Lady Victoria say about it?” Max asked, to which Francine shrugged.

“Boss lady said it's fine with her if it's fine with you. And honestly, it's probably for the best. This VIP and his friend are around your age. They also talk about skateboarding, too, from what the others picked up. You'd be better suited for the both of them than anyone else.” The Maine Coon said.

“Seriously? A VIP who likes skateboarding? This I gotta see this. Okay, I'll serve them.” Max said with a smile.

“That's the spirit! Cookie should be finishing up their order and he'll pass it along to you. They're in the table beside the mural. I'll pass that shrimp scampi along to the next bunny boy. Knock 'em dead, Maxence!” Francine cheered with a wink as she took the tray and went outside.

Max then went to meet with Cookie, a charming older Pangolin from New Orleans, and went to get the order. Turns out the order was basically a serving cart filled with finger sandwiches, mini pastries, grilled monkfish and a bottle of white wine in a bucket of ice. When Max asked Cookie if he knew that the order was just for two people the older man shrugged and said that they had big appetites, especially the VIP's friend. Max just shrugged back and took the serving cart away, rolling it out onto the main floor and going into his section. As he walked past several of his regular called out to give their hello's, saying how they missed him and such. Max just smiled back and promised he would tend to them very soon. As he neared the table where Francine said the VIPs would be, he realized that he hadn't asked what the names of the guests were.

“Oh, well. I guess I'll find out soon enough.” Max thought to himself with a little shrug. As he neared the table he heard one voice first. A young man's voice, loud and boisterous.

“Sheesh, sweetheart, why'd ya have to drag me here? I can think of a dozen other ways to spend a Thursday night than puttin' on a suit and tie and sittin' here for hours.” Said the voice, giving a groan of annoyance at the end.

Then another voice replied. Another young man's voice. But this one was posher and more sophisticated in his tone.

“Come now, Tank, it's for a good cause. And besides, as I recall, you were the one who wanted to come along when I mentioned the fine dining this cabaret had to offer. Especially since it was either sit for hours but get good food here, or let Shades experiment on you with his new Five Alarm Chili recipe.” The second voice replied with a hint of amusement.

“Tch! Yeah, yeah. I still don't see why we had to move from the cozy VIP section, too. Oh wait, I know why. You had to see that cute new waiter up close that made yer head spin when he zipped past earlier.” The first voice, apparently Tank, said in a teasing tone.

“Shh! Quiet down, you jerk! Someone will hear you!” Scolded the first voice.

Smirking a little to himself Max hastened his approach to the table and stood up straight with confident purpose. Now he really had to see just who this VIP was that he was so keen on meeting him. Once he was close enough to the table Max greeted the two the same way as he did every other table throughout the night.

“Bonsoir, messieurs! My name is Maxence and I will be your bunny boy hopping...to...your requests.” Max trailed off, his excitement slowly turning into shock once he got a good look at who the VIP was.

He found out who he was, alright. He's seen the VIP on the cover of a sports magazine issue covering young prodigy athletes not long ago. And he's even seen him in the brochure for the college that he, P.J. and Bobby are going to as an example of the kind of all-star students that are made from the tutelage of the professors on campus. Sitting at the table just half a meter away from him was none other than Bradley Uppercrust the 3^rd, X-Games champion of Welig University. And now he was gazing upon Max Goof in a bunny suit. Before the embarrassment and horror could fully sink in and make Max run away – the Saluki started to speak to him which forced to him listen.

“Oh, I'm quite familiar with you Maxence. I just haven't had the pleasure of seeing the efficient yet elusive waiter that my peers have been raving about. So I thought I'd get a look of you myself.” Bradley said, looking Max up and down. Then he gave a smile. “And I must say...I am thoroughly impressed.”

“...R-Right. Th-Thank you, Mr. Uppercrust.” Max said, biting the inside of his cheek for stuttering like he did.

“Now, now. There's no need to be formal. Just Bradley is fine. But I'm surprised that you know my name. I didn't share it with your hostess when I asked for you to serve me. I didn't think anyone here knew me.” Bradley said with a raised, curious eyebrow.

“O-Oh! Well, it's just...I know you're an X-Games champion is all. And I'm into extreme sports and skateboarding, too.” Max replied, proud of himself for not stuttering as bad but now hating that his knees felt oddly weak. And they only got weaker as Bradley, who was once leaning in his chair, sat up straighter and looked at Max with a twinkle of interest in his eyes.

“You skateboard? Well, it seems like I've truly hit the jackpot by coming here tonight. I'm honored to be in your care for the evening, Maxence.” Bradley said, holding out a hand to Max. The Labradoodle looked at the hand with a hint of nervousness before he smiled and took his hand, shaking it in return.

“It's an honor to have you with us at the Fabulous Dare, Monsieur Uppercrust.” Max replied, his voice a bit stronger this time as he gave a kind smile. The two stared at each other for a good ten seconds before the large bulldog sitting across loudly cleared his throat.

“Don't mind me, baby. I was just starvin' over here.” The other canine said with a knowing smirk.

“Tank...” Bradley growled in annoyance. But Max blushed and pulled his hand away from Bradley, muttering a 'sorry' as he hastily laid out food then took the wine out of the ice bucket and popped it open then proceeded to pour both glasses until they had the appropriate amount. Max then sat the bottle of wine in the center of the table and gave a bow to the pair.

“I hope you gentlemen enjoy your meal! I have to tend to my other tables now! Give me a call if you need anything! Je vous dis adieu!” Max exclaimed, then grabbed the serving cart and turned on his heel as he proceeded to leave.

“Ah, wait! I wanted to ask...!” Bradley tried to call out, but the Labradoodle was already a whisper on the wind. “...for your phone number. Ugh! Nice going, Tank. Thanks for ruining the mood and scaring him off. I truly do appreciate it.”

“No problem, Bradley. You know I'm your number one cock-block.” Tank responded with a smug grin as he proceeded to chow down on the finger sandwiches.

“Hmph! Number one pain in my ass, is more like it. At any rate, the fact that this little cottontail likes skateboarding and knows the X-Games says a lot. But there's still time before the gala is over for me to work my Uppercrust charm and get those digits.” Bradley said as he cut into his grilled monkfish and took a bite.

“And if you do?” Tank asked between bites of food. At this Bradley gave a grin as he held up his wine glass, then moved it until it was silhouetted against Maxence's body as he watched him take the order of an older couple in his section. The bubbles of the drink making him look ethereal as he smiled and laughed with the man and woman.

“When I do, big guy, by this time next year I'll have two trophies. My newest X-Games cup and the enchanting Maxence.” Bradley replied in a tone with lustful ambition before he took a sip of his wine.

And so the night carried on as usual. Despite the mild internal freak-out Max initially suffered when he first saw Bradley, which Tyler got a kick out of and laughed his ass off at when he told him during their break, he managed to keep his cool and retain his focus. As he served Bradley and Tank he found that they were actually pretty cool guys in the moments they would make small talk. Pretty cocky and somewhat pushier than your average college guy, but otherwise not too bad. Although he couldn't help but notice that Bradley seemed to really hang on the attention Max gave him. He'd stare at the Labradoodle as he spoke, smile a bit wider and laugh a little harder whenever he'd say something funny. At one point Bradley even took hold of Max's hand after he sat down Tank's sirloin steak and said that he would love to see his balance and grace on a skateboard some time. The young man wasn't ashamed to admit that he liked the attention Bradley was giving him, but he dared not hope that it was anything more than mere flirting and a rich boy liking how a cute half-poodle looked in a bunny suit. Angelique tried to convince him that Bradley was looking at him as more than a flight of fancy, however Max wasn't convinced. He just wanted to focus on wrapping up these last two hours of his shift before the big song comes to close out the evening. And as the band was playing a soft jazz number Max was practically gliding on his heels as he moved from table to table. What a relaxing final two hours this will be...

...is what he thought until the front doors suddenly slammed open with loud metallic thuds. It startled several guests, waiters and drag queens nearest to the front – which included Max, Francine, Tyler and Angelique who was working the bar.

“What in Hell and all of its Nine Circles was that!?” Angelique asked in shock, barely grabbing hold of the drink shaker she had that she nearly dropped from fright.

“I don't know. I think some new guests came in. It looks like Francine is talking with two people at the stand.” Max said.

“Yeah? Well they don't need to turn our doors into wall-to-wall battering rams. Let me get a look at 'em.” Tyler said and walked a bit closer to see who was at the hostess, stand. The otter squinted his eyes at first as he honed in on the faces of the two people, which then bulged in shock. And finally his face dropped into an expression of annoyance. “Son of a bitch. Not them.”

“What's wrong? Who's them?” Max asked. Curious herself Angelique sat the drink shaker down and moved from behind the bar to get a closer look, too, standing beside Tyler. The other waiter pointed out who Francine was talking to, and the Southern Belle's face took on a similar displeased look.

“Lord, give me strength and a Mint Julep...” Angelique groaned out, running a hand down her face. Deciding to finally get answers Max moved stand in front of his fellow waiter and the drag queen, just so he could see these people were that instantly made their moods sour.

Standing before Francine at the hostess stand were two older men. A pair of Australian Kelpies that looked to be in their late 20's to early 30's. They looked exactly alike, too, so Max figured they were twins. To his complete shock they even dressed in the same dark blue suit. Only the Kelpie to the left had a tie to complete his attire while the Kelpie on the right had no tie and had a few top buttons of his dress shirt underneath his suit jacket left unbuttoned to show off a bit of the top of his chest. And while the Kelpie on the left kept his short, black hair slicked back the Kelpie on the right let his short hair be wild and free. Once he got a good look at the pair Max turned back to his coworkers.

“So what about them? They just look like a pair of twin Australian Kelpies.” Max said.

“Oh, they're not just a pair of Australian Kelpies, Max. That's Jason and Mason Wayne-Wright. They're the co-owners of their family's jewelry company Wayne-Wright Lapidary. The biggest international jewelry corporation in Australia. People call them the Diamond Earls of Tasmania.” Angelique explained.

“Alright, so they're a super important pair of twin Australian Kelpies. But why the bad mood about seeing them here?” Max asked. At this Tyler rolled his eyes and spoke.

“Because they're a pair of cornball flirts, that's why. The make passes like they're doing a skit for a 60's comedy show! To say nothing of how they bleed the bar dry every year they come to our events.” Tyler said.

“Every year? Why don't you ban them if they bother you guys so much?” Max asked.

“Eh, they're just a pair of rowdy boys in the bodies of grown men. Nothing that we're not used to or can't handle. And they've actually helped security handle the more unsavory customers in the past. Plus they always donate the most for charity events like this. So boss lady is happy to let them keep comin'.” Angelique replied.

“Still, I wish they had more subtle ways of announcing themselves...” Tyler said, casting a pointed glare in the direction of the Wayne-Wright twins. Just then the trio watched as Francine walked over towards them and stood before Max.

“Evenin', Max! I know you're busy with your section and a VIP in it to boot, but can I pass along one last pair to you? These two guests just arrived, and your section is the only one with space.” Francine said, clasping her hands together in a begging gesture.

“What!? You're seriously putting those obnoxious outback bores with Max? Are you trying to render him permanently jaded?” Tyler asked dramatically. Max rolled his eyes in amusement and patted his fellow waiter on the shoulder.

“It's alright, Tyler. Guests are guests. I'll take them on.” Max said.

“Are you sure about that, darlin'? We don't want Mason and Jason to dampen your mood, what with this being the last two hours of your shift.” Angelique said with a concerned look.

“It's fine, really! Besides – I know a trick or two for handling cornballs. Trust me.” Max said, giving his coworkers a wink of assurance.

“Oh Max, you are truly an angel of mercy! Thank you so much! Come on, then. Let's rip off the band-aid and introduce you to your new patrons.” Francine said and led the way to the hostess stand with Max following.

As they got to the stand, the Labradoodle saw the two brothers talking casually between themselves – chuckling and playfully punching each other in the arms. And now that he was closer, he could also see that the men were rather tall. Even in the pumps Max could just barely each the center of their chests. Angelique mentioned how they had helped keep rowdier customers in line, but he can't imagine that two well-built guys as tall as these two would need help keeping anyone in line. Francine then cleared her throat to get the attention of the twins, making them pause their conversation and look towards her.

“Sorry for the wait, gentlemen! I had to fetch your waiter. Allow me to introduce our darling bunny boy Maxence. You'll be tended to in his section for the night.” The Maine Coon said, stepping aside so that the twins could see Max standing there.

“Bonsoir, messieurs. It's a pleasure to have you here at the Fabulous Dare.” Max greeted, giving a bow to the twins. Immediately the Australian Kelpie with the wild hair and partially unbuttoned shirt gave a low wolf whistle and stepped forward, taking Max's hand into his.

“Well, well, well, mate. It's an even greater pleasure to have your fabulous self be our waiter. Folks usually call me the better lookin' twin – but you can just call me Mason Wayne-Wright.” The man said, giving a crooked grin to Max as he leaned down to kiss his hand.

But Max was quicker and pulled his hand away as he gave a coy smile.

“Thank you for telling me that, Mr. Wayne-Wright. Now I know not to call you up.” Max replied.

This made Mason blink in surprise while Francine barely stifled a laugh and Jason just look at the stunned expression of rejection on his twin's face. The other Kelpie then pulled his twin back as he stood before Max.

“You'll have to pardon my brother, Maxence. Manners don't come naturally to him. But we can't expect the hapless lot to understand the proper way to conduct oneself as we prim and proper folk do, can we?” Jason asked as he now took Max's hand, but instead of going for a kiss he wrapped his other arm around the younger man's shoulders. At this Max gazed up at Jason with fluttering eyelashes as he slowly reached a hand up to the arm around his shoulders.

“No, Mr. Wayne-Wright...I don't expect the hapless lot to understand.” Max replied as he lightly pinched the back of Jason's hand, which prompted a small yowl of pain from the man making him recoil away from Max who just dusted himself off and turned on his heel as he walked back to the main floor. “If you'll follow me, gentlemen, I can take you to your table.”

Mason and Jason watched after Max, completely catatonic after the back-to-back rejection. Francine meanwhile was grinning like the cat that ate the...well you know how that saying goes. She then turned to the twins and spoke again.

“It doesn't sound as good as it would from Angelique, because no Southern drawl, but I'm going to give you two some advice. Don't go lookin' for a broken heart. I think that little bunny has a bit more kick in his hop than you two can handle.” Francine said with a knowing look that also gave an indication of warning that the Wayne-Wright's behave themselves around Maxence.

“So he does. We'll be sure to keep that in mind, Miss Francine. Always a pleasure.” Jason said to the drag queen, giving a polite bow and wink before following after Maxence with his brother right behind him. Glaring suspiciously at the backs of the pair, not believing the prim and proper twin at all, Francine took the handset off the rotary phone and quickly dialed a certain number. After the second ring the person she called for answered.

“Evenin', Junior. Are you busy? ...Good, good. Listen, I want you on the floor in Max's section to keep an eye on him...No, nothing wrong now. But if my copyrighted you-know-what senses are tingling and telling me true, I think Edward A. Murphy Jr. is going to try his damnedest to make something go wrong if it can.” Francine explained over the phone.

Meanwhile, as Maxence led the Wayne-Wright's to their table, the twins were talking among themselves.

“Oi, Jace! What were you on about with that 'we'll keep that in mind' talk to Francine? You seriously going to let that ol' prettified pussycat scare us into submission?” Mason asked his twin with an incredulous expression.

“Hardly, dear brother. As I said to Miss Francine; we'll keep that in mind. I didn't say that we'll mind ourselves. Especially after the descriptor of Maxence that she gave us. This little bunny has some kick in his hop. He's not like the other cute faces that hop about in their ears and cottontails. Maxence intrigues me. And I'm keen on satiating my curiosity about him.” Jason explained, smiling to his twin.

“Ahh, I get'cha now. Just say what Franny wants to hear and whatnot to divert any suspicion. Smart idea.” Mason said with a grin.

“I know. After all, you didn't think of it. Otherwise it wouldn't have worked.” Jason quipped with a little smirk which made Mason's grin turn into a scowl as he lightly bumped into his brother's arm.

“Arsehole. But anyways, I agree with ya about Maxence. He's got more on the ball than what you'd think just from lookin' at him. He's smart, not weak. Carries himself real evenly like. Gotta admit – I'm feelin' a might like Alice and curious enough to go down this little rabbit of wonder as well to learn more about him.” Mason said.

“Precisely why for the duration of our stay here...” Jason started.

“We'll play our cards right and charm dear little Maxence as only we can...” Mason continued.

“And by the end of the night, our luck will change with a little rabbit's foot.” The twins finished at the same time, grinning identical grins and giving each other confident winks.

At the same time, Bradley was starting to feel melancholy. He hadn't seen that pretty little Labradoodle for a good ten minutes now. Tank assured him that he was just taking a break – but a part of him couldn't help but fear that perhaps he got too obvious with his flirting and scared him off. Father always said that, when it came to courtship, Bradley was likely to fall in the footsteps of his grandfather more than him. And dear Grandfather Lee did have one of his old war buddies who was a flying ace sky write a request for lunch to the woman who would later become his wife when they were still in university. Granted it all worked out and the pair were happily married until Grandmum Abigail Uppercrust passed, but doing something like that nowadays would likely be viewed as being over the top. While he didn't do anything like that, maybe holding Maxence's hand that one time startled him. Or maybe he got sick of going back and forth waiting on their table.

“Bradley, calm down. Yer gonna tap the soles outta your loafers.” Tank replied, not looking up from his slice of pie. This made the Saluki pause in his anxious tapping of his foot and he immediately stopped.

“Thanks, Tank. I'm just worried that I won't see Maxence again. I really wanted to get his number before the final show tonight.” Bradley said, turning back to the table and poking at his slice of cheesecake.

“You're real worked up over this one waiter, baby. What's the deal? It ain't like he's the only bunny boy in here.” Tank said, gesturing to the dozens of waiters in the same uniforms walking around.

“I know, but...I don't know. Something about him just caught my eye. The way he moved, so fast yet so gracefully when he passed by the VIP booth earlier. The fact that he actually knows and likes skateboarding and isn't some vapid airhead fluttering about. It just struck me in a way that I can't describe. And I'd really like to see him again.” Bradley said, now smiling down at his cheesecake slice. At this Tank gave an amused but supportive snort.

“Damn, Bradley. You sure got it bad. But in a good way. I'm happy for ya.” Tank said.

“Heh. Well don't start cheering too soon. This will only be a success if I can get that little minx's number and...” Bradley paused as something caught his peripheral vision, then he turned his head to get a better look. And what he saw made his jaw drop in horror before his eyes narrowed in a harsh glare. “Whiskey. Tango. Fucking. Foxtrot!?”

“What's the matter?” Tank asked, shocked and confused by his best friend's sudden angry mood. At this Bradley reached over and grabbed Tank's face and made him turn to look at what he was looking at.

“Do you see what I see ten yards across from us on the other side of the room!?” Bradley asked back.

Tank blinked for a moment, adjusting his eyes to the forced perspective the Saluki put him in, then looked. And when he did he saw exactly why Bradley went from madly in love to just plain mad. At a table between two tall vases filled with orchids was none other than Mason and Jason Wayne-Wright. The Australian Kelpie twins were basically the rich guy equivalents of annoying older cousins to Bradley, and they made sure every time they would meet at Wall Street investor pitches, charity events or country club trips where the international shipping conglomerate heir stood on the hierarchy. They never outright belittled Bradley, mind you. Both Jason and Mason have said to the public and to Bradley's face that they admire his business savvy and ambition. They just like to get under his skin and mess with him. Whether that was doubling, sometimes tripling, a donation that Bradley made to a charity or showing up whatever X-Games accomplishment Bradley made with their own crazy adventures in Australia's Outback and then having it published in a sports magazine that they knew Bradley read from and would see – the twins knew how to press his buttons and had no qualms in doing so.

And it looks like they found a new button to press. Maxence was acting as their waiter.

“Oh no.” Tank said in a worried tone. Both for Bradley and for his appetite. This place really serves great food. He'd hate to get banned because Bradley lost it in a jealous rage and chose to use the steak knife on Jason or Mason.

“I can't believe this! They're supposed to be in Germany doing a merger with a car manufacturer! That's why I came in the first place, because I was sure they wouldn't be here!” Bradley stated angrily, releasing Tank's face and flopping back into his seat as he cast an angry glare at the older men across the room.

“Well Germany does have that one highway with no speed limits. Maybe they drove through the paperwork just as quick since it's a car manufacturer, heh.” Tank said with a slight chuckle.

“Not funny, Tank.” Bradley stated with a glare, drumming his fingers angrily as he watched Maxence take the orders of the Wayne-Wright twins. Jason was nodding along, smiling that phony smile of his that accentuated that chiseled chin he knew for a fact wasn't real. And Mason, ever the show-off had the complete lack of shame to leave the top of his dress shirt unbuttoned to reveal a portion of his pectorals, was doing that exaggerated hardy laugh. Even slamming his hand on the table. Ugh, thought Bradley with a sneer of disgust. These two were like a bad comedy skit.

“Right, sorry.” Tank apologized. Then he looked from his best friend to Maxence as he waited on the twins and tried a different angle to show support. “Hey, look at it this way Bradley. You've talked with the pretty boy longer. You built up repertoire with him. That's the one advantage you got over Jason and Mason. And not even those smooth talkers can schmooze their way into his fishnets in enough time before the final show.”

This seemed to do the trick and made Bradley's glare soften a bit as he processed Tank's words, then nodded slightly in agreement.

“That's true. Even Jason, being the more eloquent one, can't charm Maxence that easily.” Bradley said in agreement. But then he looked back at the table and watched as the Labradoodle waiter walked away, apparently having finished taking the orders of the Wayne-Wright's and glared at the twins once more before he slowly stood up. “Still. I don't think there's anything wrong with laying out some ground rules.”

“Ground rules, Bradley! Rules! That doesn't mean put them in the ground!” Tank called out after the heir as he walked off, then sighed. “Boy oh boy. The things love makes a man do.”

At their table, Jason and Mason were chatting and joking with each other when a shadow suddenly loomed over their table. Looking up they saw none other than Bradley standing there, arms crossed and giving them an accusatory glare.

“Why Mason, look who it is! Our honorary little cousin Bradley.” Jason said with a wide grin.

“It certainly is, Jason. How's it been, Braddy? We haven't seen you since that one partner of your parent's company opened up a new ski resort and you absolutely beefed it down the slopes. And just after he gave you the honor of cutting the ribbon for the slopes, too. Some follow-up act, that's for true.” Mason added with a grin matching and a snorting laugh. Bradley's glare sharpened, while the urge to get physical heightened. But he fought it down and kept things civil. For now.

“First of all, I'm not your honorary little cousin. Which I have made abundantly clear from past conversations. Secondly, do not ever call me Braddy ever again. And third – keep your hands to yourselves and on your plates tonight.” Bradley stated.

“Goodness Bradley, you seem to be in quite the mood this evening.” Jason pointed out.

“Yeah. Who pissed in your cup and said it was apple juice, mate? We're the pinnacle of good manners. Why the harshness?” Mason asked.

“I just want to make sure that it's abundantly clear that you don't go harassing the waitstaff with your disgraceful behavior. They don't need a circus act pair like you making their work more stressful than it already is.” Bradley stated.

Before either twin could speak in their defense, Maxence came over with a tray of drinks.

“Here you are, gentlemen. A pair of Aussie Mules to start you off...” Maxence paused when he saw Bradley standing by the table. “Mr. Uppercrust! This is a surprise. I didn't think you knew the Wayne-Wright's.”

“Oh yeah, we...!” Mason started to say until Bradley cut him off as he turned to Maxence and walked up to him.

“Travel in the same business circles, but that's about it Maxence. Our relationship is coincidental at best. I can promise you that.” The heir said with a tight, wide smile that showed off all of his teeth which made Maxence lean back a little in slight trepidation.

“Okay...Well I'm sorry if I kept you waiting. I was helping out my coworkers at the bar and had the Wayne-Wright's placed in my section. So I had to take care of them and get them settled in.” Maxence explained with a polite smile before he turned to sit down the drinks to the twins.

“Really? I see.” Bradley said plainly, his smile and nod of understanding a stark contrast to the resentful anger boiling behind his baby blue eyes. So that explains it. Now he'll have to deal with these two taking away Maxence's attention. “Well, I hope that doesn't mean I'll miss out on your amazing service.”

“Oh no! I'll still make time for you, Mr. Uppercrust. You're my favorite table in the whole section.” Maxence said, turning back to the Saluki with a bright smile. Seeing those cute buck teeth turn up along with his lips and the sparkle in those chocolate brown eyes when the Labradoodle said 'my favorite' and referred to Bradley made the heir nearly buckle to his knees. How in the world could someone be so divinely adorable? Luckily, he managed to maintain his composure and smiled back at Maxence. This time a much more genuine smile.

“That really means a lot to hear, Maxence. And I can honestly say that you've become my favorite waiter bar none at Fabulous Dare. If you won't mind bringing along a bottle of sparkling flavored water, I'd greatly appreciate it.” Bradley said.

“Of course, Mr...” Maxence started to say before Bradley held up a hand to stop him.

“Please, we've shared stories about our most embarrassing skate failures. We're well past formalities. Just Bradley is fine.” Bradley replied and gave a charming wink. He relished in the little blush the younger man made as he smiled shyly and nodded.

“Sure, Bradley. I'll be right back.” Maxence said before giving the three men one last bow and walking away.

As soon as the Labradoodle was gone, Jason and Mason turned their attention right to Bradley.

“A-ha. So that's why the hostility. Seems like our lil' cousin has a crush, Jace.” Mason said with a teasing grin that was growing wider and wider with mischief as he looked at the Saluki, who's happy face immediately flipped into a mean scowl as he turned to look back at the twins, as he picked up his Aussie Mule.

“It would appear so, Mace. And he clearly sees the same thing in Maxence that we do. Which speaks volumes of Bradley's impeccable taste. He really is just like family.” Jason said teasingly while grabbing his own rocks glass mix of rum, ginger and lime juice and holding it up towards the heir as if giving him a toast. At this Bradley slammed his hands on their table, making the candelabra in the center rattle from the sudden movement.

“I'm warning you two. Stay the Hell away from Maxence. He's mine, and you are not to lay your smug, preening paws on him.” Bradley growled out in a low, threatening tone with a glare to match. But neither twin flinched. In fact, they looked somewhat bored by the threat.

“Is that so? He's yours? Well, you'll pardon me but I do believe you're taking the piss, dear Bradley. Because I didn't see your name anywhere on any part of Maxence's fine physique.” Jason said, giving a smirk and his own glare.

“And the night is still young, Braddy. There's plenty of time left...” Mason started.

“To allow us to work our dual magic on that gorgeous Labradoodle. And before the night is over, he'll have two handsome blokes...” Jason continued.

“For the price of one.” The twins concluded in unison then clinked their glasses together before sipping their drinks. Bradley growled in aggravation then turned on his heel and marched back over to his table.

The Wayne-Wright's want a battle for Maxence? Fine. He'll give them a goddamn war.

And what a war it was. The Saluki and Kelpies were both laying it on thick with Maxence, calling him over for to top off their drinks or ask what he thought of the food and just to chat in general. While Bradley definitely had an edge with how much more he and Maxence had talked – Jason and Mason were starting to gang up on him. Turns out their cornball way of flirting didn't bore the younger man as it did the other waiters. In fact he laughed at their dad jokes, exaggerated expressions and how they both played off each other as they busted each other's chops. Bradley practically broke his steak knife in half as he bent it in a crushing, jealous grip as he watched Mason and Jason elicit the cute sounds of laughter that should have been exclusive to him. And frankly he'd rather have their throats in his grip instead. Thankfully Junior, at the earlier request of Francine's forethought, was on the floor and keeping an eye on both the heir and the twins so that they didn't turn the cabaret into a cage match. And for both the sake of civility and looking good in the eyes of the pretty Labradoodle they were vying for the rich men behaved themselves. However as the time ticked down Maxence let Bradley know that their night together was coming to a close.

“What!? Your shift is almost over?” Bradley asked in surprise.

“Yep. In about twenty minutes I'll be leaving for the night. But don't worry, Bradley. A new bunny boy will hop to it for you and Tank when I leave.” Maxence said with a smile as he refilled the highball glass with sparkling pomegranate flavored water.

“Oh...That's great. Just great.” Bradley said, giving an awkward smile while trying hard to hide the ache in his heart. He didn't want another bunny boy. He wanted Maxence. He wanted to whisk him off into the night. He wanted to show him off to the rest of his fraternity back at Welig. And all through the evening he hasn't even gotten to ask for his...Wait!

“If that's all you gentlemen need, I'm going to do a final round with the rest of my tables.” Maxence's voice spoke, snapping Bradley out his thoughts as he looked to see the waiter topping off Tank's highball with another pour of soda. Deciding that it was now or never Bradley cleared his throat to get the younger man's attention.

“Actually, Maxence, I do have one final request before you leave.” Bradley said. Maxence stood up straight and turned to look at Bradley with those chocolate brown eyes that left him so weak.

“Of course. What is it?” Maxence asked. Immediately his palms began to sweat and the doubt began to creep down his spine, but the Saluki clenched his fists tightly as he kept focus and proceeded to ask the question that he's been trying to ask all night.

“Well, you see...I would like, if it's not too presumptuous on my part that is, to have...” Just as Bradley was about to say those last crucial three words, another someone walked over to their table.

“Hey, Maxence.” The new figure, another dog anthro, said which made the table occupants and Maxence look to see who it was. Bradley recognized the person as the son of the cabaret owner Lady Victoria. Junior, he thinks his name is.

“Junior? What's the matter?” Maxence asked with a concerned expression. The Bullmastiff didn't say anything aloud. Instead he leaned down and whispered into Maxence's loppy ear. Whatever it was must have not been good, too, because his eyes widened slightly in horror. The younger man then turned back to Bradley and gave an apologetic bow to him. “I'm really sorry Bradley, but something came up. I'll try to get back to you as quick as I can.”

“Of course, Maxence. I understand. I hope things get sorted out.” The Saluki said with an understanding smile as he waved Max off, watching him leave.

“You know, this is just a cabaret.” Junior said, eyes locked squarely on Bradley. At this the heir raised an eyebrow at the somewhat older canine but replied anyway.

“I'm aware. And?” Bradley asked.

“And if you're looking for a hook-up with a pretty face, Uppercrust, you can pay your tab and call the upstate madame like all of the other moneybags. You and the Wayne-Wright's.” Junior stated bluntly while glaring at Bradley.

“Hey, watch it pal!” Tank stated with a growl as he started to stand up until Bradley held up a hand, motioning him to stop.

“No, no, don't sweat it Tank. Junior here is only doing his job. Looking after the waitstaff. And it's not like I have any love lost for Mason and Jason.” Bradley said, not looking away from the Bullmastiff.

“Glad we're in agreement. Then I don't have to make you see my point like I did with the twins, if you catch my drift.” Junior said, lifting his suit jacket to show off a switchblade poking out of his pocket. Bradley looked down at the handle of the weapon, then looked up at Junior before he finally smiled.

“I certainly do, Junior. But you wouldn't have needed to make me seen your point anyway, as it's not applicable to me.” Bradley stated.

“Not applicable? Uppercrust, you can think that I'm stupid but don't talk to me like I'm stupid. I know your type. No guy like you or the Wayne-Wright's have pure intentions for people like Maxence. And I'm not going to let either of you ruin his life just so you pricks can have a one-night thrill.” Junior stated harshly. At this Bradley's smile grew tighter while his eyes narrowed into a sharp glare.

“With all due respect, Junior, you don't know a damn thing about me. I may be rich like Jason and Mason, but that's where our similarities end. We couldn't be more unalike one another if we tried. Especially regarding our intentions towards Maxence. I can't speak for those two, but I can say this for myself...” Bradley paused and stood up from his chair standing at his full height and relishing in the fact that he had a good three inches on Junior and literally looked down on him as he whispered his last words. “Absolutely nothing and no one will keep me away from that Labradoodle. And if he wants nothing to do with me, I'll hear that from him and only him. Have I made myself abundantly clear?”

“...Like a crystal decanter.” Junior replied, voice even but still retaining a certain level of hostility as his fists were clenched at his sides. At this Bradley gave a smug smile and patted the other man on the shoulder in a condescending manner.

“Excellent. I knew that we'd come to a proper understanding, Junior. Before you said I can think you're stupid, but the fact is I never thought of you as being stupid at all. More like you're absentminded. And as such, you need the occasional...reminder of who's where on the food chain. Now, if you'll pardon me, I'm going to freshen up in the men's room.” Bradley said as he walked past Junior to go to the restrooms. Tank, meanwhile, was grinning from ear to ear at the whole scene. Talk about dinner and a show.

“Care for a glass, pal? My treat.” Tank said as he held up his highball glass of soda as a make-shift peace offering. Junior shot him an embarrassed glare and just gave an annoyed huff before storming off. To this Tank just shrugged and sipped his soda. “Guess he don't care for carbonated drinks.”

At the same time, Max went to the backstage area where Junior told him to go meet with Lady Victoria and Angelique. He had whispered to him that they had something important to tell him and a huge favor to ask. The young man wondered what could have happened but tried not to think the worst. Finally he got to the wardrobe section where he saw Lady Victoria sitting on a cushioned seat and Angelique standing next to her while they chatted.

“Boss Victoria? You wanted to see me?” Max asked. The drag queens looked over at the young man and the Bullmastiff stood up and walked over to Max.

“Yeah, Max. There's, uh, a slight problem. We might have to cancel the final show for tonight.” Lady Victoria said. At this Max's jaw dropped in horror, not expecting to hear that at all.

“What?! Why, what happened!?” Max asked, looking from Lady Victoria to Angelique.

“Unfortunately, darlin', our headliner who was supposed to come on stage and sing had a bad fall with her bird costume as she was coming down the stairs from her apartment. Thankfully she's not singing her swan song, but she's going to be singing medical lullabies at the hospital for at least a month.” Angelique explained.

“Oh man. This is a disaster. But we can't just cancel the final show! There was to be something we can do. What about you, Lady Victoria? You're a performer also.” Max said with a hopeful look. At this the Bullmastiff gave a sad smile and shook her head.

“Would if I could, kid, but my voice is shot. Used most of it to yell at the vendors who tried to screw us over on the seafood order for this event.” Lady Victoria explained.

“Oh, I'm sorry. Crap, what could we do then?” Max asked aloud, running a panicked hand through his styled hair.

“Actually, that's the second reason we called you here. The huge favor we wanted to ask.” Lady Victoria said. At this Max looked at the Bullmastiff with a confused look.

“What do you mean?” Max asked.

“I mean, Max, that we want you to sing for the final show.” Lady Victoria said.

The statement hung in the air for a while after that, the silence stretching out for thirty whole seconds as Max processed what was just said to him. When the words all finally clicked in his mind, he did a double take and looked at his employer with wide eyes.

“Wait, what!? You're serious? Is she serious?” Max asked, looking from Lady Victoria to Angelique with a stunned face.

“We both are darlin'! Remember when you talked about how you used to sing in junior high and high school? Well, it's time to bring back that little starlet.” Angelique said with a wide, supportive smile.

“Yeah, but I didn't sing professionally. I don't have any experience like that!” Max stated, shaking his head in denial.

“No experience, huh? Then I guess that was some other Labradoodle kid and his old man who crashed the Powerline concert seven years ago.” Lady Victoria said with a knowing grin, to which Max winced and blushed at the memory.

“Oh God. You saw that...? Well, that wasn't anything planned or training. I don't know, Boss Victoria...” Max trailed off, looking at the ground with an uncertain frown. But the Bullmastiff gently brought Max's chin up to face her as she gave a warm smile.

“Well I do know, Maxence. I know that you got more guts than most people twice your age. I know that you got talents that you've yet to fully tap into. And I know that you can bring the house down and make this a night that the Fabulous Dare won't forget. I wouldn't be asking you if I thought you couldn't pull it off.” Lady Victoria said.

Max blinked, surprised at the drag queen's passionate statement. Then he looked away, thinking for a moment. After coming to a decision, the young man finally looked back to Lady Victoria with a wide smile as he gave a nod.

“If you really believe I can, then sure. I'll do the show!” Max stated. Lady Victoria let out a small sigh of relief as she stepped back and patted Max on the cheek.

“I knew I could count on you, kid. Angelique, will you take Max to...” Lady Victoria started to say until the Tamworth pig cut her off and shoved past her to grab hold of Max's arm.

“Wardrobe, of course! I thought you'd never ask, boss lady! Come along with me, Maxie honey. I made you pretty before, but this time! This time I make...the magics!” Angelique exclaimed, making a dramatic flip of her ponytail as she struck a pose.

“M-Make the what...AHH!!” Max yelled as he was suddenly dragged away by the Southern Belle to the furthest depths of the wardrobe. Lady Victoria just chuckled as she headed for the exit.

“It's nice to see someone take pride in their work.” Lady Victoria said to herself as she left the space.

Meanwhile, back on the main floor the anthros in Maxence's section were growing a bit uneasy. They had noticed their dear waiter had vanished suddenly and that Abalone had taken over. He explained to the tables that the Labradoodle was called by Lady Victoria to tend to an important matter, and everyone was very understanding. But a certain Saluki was left heartbroken. Not only had he missed his chance to finally get Maxence's phone number, the final twenty minutes of his shift had already come and gone. So he was likely miles away from the cabaret already.

“Hey, don't look so down baby. Maxence don't seem like the type'a fella who'd string someone along. I'm sure he'll show up. He's probably just trying to get out of those fishnets. They're sexy to look at, but I'll bet they're a bitch to take off.” Tank said with a slight grin, trying to cheer up and reassure his best friend. Bradley gave a sad smile but shook his head.

“Thanks for that, Tank, but while I don't think Maxence would try to stand me up he probably couldn't afford to stay much longer. And frankly, I really can't either. We have those history midterms to study for. Let me just make the donation for the charity and then we can go.” Bradley said with a sad sigh as he took out his check book and proceeded to write down his donation with melancholy pen strokes.

“I'm real sorry, Bradley. Seriously. I know you were really head over heels for that bunny boy. But hey, look at it this way. At least the Wayne-Wright's didn't get to take him home either.” Tank said, pointing over at the twins who looked to be bickering with each other. Likely over who was at fault for not getting Maxence's number either. This made Bradley smirk a bit before he turned back to the check.

“Ha. I guess that's a pretty decent consolation prize. Anyway, let's drop this check off and call a taxi to take us back to campus.” Bradley said as he tore out the check then stood up. Just then, however, the lights dimmed down and one spotlight was focused on the stage. Francine then walked onto the stage, tapping the microphone a bit to check the sound then cleared her throat before speaking.

“Good evening, beloved guests! We're truly grateful that you all came and opened your hearts as well as your bank accounts for our Annual Dare to Be Generous Charity Gala. Suffice to say we've beaten this year's goal. And we owe it all to you beautiful kings and queens. Give yourselves a round of applause!” Francine exclaimed and the crowd erupted into a short moment of applause before stopping to let the Maine Coon continue. “So to show our gratitude, we have a very special performance for you. For one night only, here and now at the Fabulous Dare, it's our very own rising star. The quaint and quintessential Maxence!”

At hearing that name, Bradley stopped clapping and felt his eyes widen. He shook his head and blinked. Surely he didn't hear that right. This must be a dream. He looked to Tank with a look of silent question – his face begging for clarification to know if he did indeed hear what he just heard. And Tank gave a slow nod. Bradley then looked across the room and saw that Mason and Jason were giving each other mirrored expressions of surprise. Clearly they didn't expect this anymore than he did. The heir then looked back on the stage just in time to see that Francine had left and the spotlight had now moved to the velvet dark gold curtains. After a short while a leg stepped out from behind the curtain to reveal a black furred leg wearing a chiffon white glittery pump on the foot. Then the owner of the leg stepped out from behind the curtain to reveal a twirling figure in white who gracefully spun over to the microphone. Once the figure stopped spinning everyone saw that the figure was wearing a snow white, long-sleeve off shoulder evening dress with glittery powder blue accents along the waist, hemline and neckline and a slit on the right side that stopped just above the knee and chiffon white pumps. The figure also had medium length black hair that was let loose but flipped frontward and hid their face. Finally though they gave a dramatic flip of their hair to reveal their face, which was indeed Maxence. On the floor the crowd gasped in awe at how dazzling the Labradoodle looked now, compared to the pretty boy he was in his bunny uniform. Tank even let out an impressed whistle at the sight of him.

“Well damn. Seems like the little rabbit is a real angora. Cleans up pretty good, don't he Bradley? ….Bradley?” Tank asked, turning to look back at his best friend.

When he did, he saw that Bradley looked like a man who wasn't just struck by Cupid's arrow. He looked like Cupid took a metal baseball bat with heart stickers on it. The way he gazed at Maxence was the look of a man far gone and hopelessly in love. Tank just shrugged and settled back into his seat. He had a distinct feeling that their study session for that math midterm was going to wait a while. Bradley likewise sat back down and waited patiently for Maxence to start singing. Eventually the band started to play the first few instrumental notes of a song, and then finally the gorgeous Labradoodle began to sing into the microphone.

“Strangers in the night exchanging glances. Wondering in the night, what were the chances we'd be sharing love...before the night was through?” Maxence sang, his voice a melodious virtuoso pitch that carried from the microphone into the speakers and washed over the ears of the guests like a refreshing spray of spring water. His eyes then scanned over the crowd before they landed on Bradley, and he smiled widely as he began to sing again. “Something in your eyes was so inviting. Something in your smile was so exciting. Something in my heart...told me I must have you!”

As Maxence sang he gestured from his eyes to his lips and laid a hand on his heart before reaching his hand out to the crowd. But to Bradley it felt more personal. It felt like he was reaching out to him. Then the young Man took the microphone off the stand and walked off the stage, stepping down the small staircase in the center and getting onto the main floor as he continued to sing.

“Strangers in the night! Two lonely people, we were strangers in the night, up the moment when we said our first hello. Little did we know.” Maxence sang as he gave a wink to the crowd as he walked past one table after the other.

And as he walked closer to where his table was, Bradley wasn't what compelled him to do what he did. Either it was the siren's call of Maxence's singing – or just the fact that his heart yearned so much for him. But the next thing Bradley knew he was standing up and rushing over towards him.

“What the!? Bradley, come back!” Tank sharply whispered after him, but it was too late.

“Love was just a glance away. A warm embracing...” Maxence sang as he raised his hand up into the air in one direction, his face looking to the crowd in another direction. Then he paused when he felt another hand touching his. As he turned around, he was shocked to see none other than Bradley standing right in front of him, pressing his hand against his. “...dance away.”

The crowd gasped softly as they watched the two young men, who just stood in the center of the room with the spotlight on them staring at one another. From their table Tank facepalmed and cursed under his breath. Now he was sure that they were going to get thrown out on their asses. Across from where they sat Mason and Jason were just plain stunned. Of all people they didn't expect someone like Bradley to do something so bold in front of a crowd like this. And Junior? Well Junior didn't take kindly to this display at all.

“That little bastard! I warned him!” Junior stated as he took out his switchblade and flicked out the stainless steel then started to make his way onto the floor, only for Lady Victoria to grab him by the ear and pull him back. “Ow, ow, ow, ow! Dad, what the Hell?!”

“Put that thing away, Junior.” The drag queen said in a calm tone.

“But Maxence! That Uppercrust punk is...!” Junior tried to explain but Lady Victoria just held up her hand to stop him, giving a smile.

“Just keep watching.” Was all his dad said. Junior was confused by this but did as he was told, and watched the scene continue to play out.

Back on the floor, Maxence blinked at Bradley. And Bradley blinked back at him. Then finally the younger man smiled wildly as he intertwined their fingers. The gesture made the Saluki blush brightly but his smile overshadowed it as he likewise flexed his fingers to fit around Maxence's gloved hand. Then he placed his other arm around the warm svelte waist and pulled Maxence close. After gazing into each other's eyes for another moment the pair began to dance across the floor, and Maxence picked up the song from where he left off.

“And ever since that night, we've been together. Lovers at first sight. In love forever. It turned out so right...for strangers in the night.” Maxence sang as he gazed deeply into Bradley's eyes before resting his head on the other man's broad chest, listening to his heartbeat as he held onto him while they danced.

The crowd watched on, silently cooing and awing over the young couple. They looked every bit like long-lost lovers who finally found each other through much adversity. Angelique, Francine and Abalone were all trying their hardest not to cry too much. Both as not to ruin the moment and also because their mascara was so expensive. As for the Wayne-Wright twins? Well, even the best can admit when they've been bested.

“Heh. Well, I'll be damned. They sure do make for a cute couple, don't they, brother mine?” Mason asked with a sad smile.

“Indeed, they do, dear brother. Like they were meant for each other. And honestly? I'd say they are.” Jason said with a matching smile. Mason then held up his rocks glass with the last sip of his drink.

“To our honorary lil' cousin, regardless of how vehemently he denies said honor. He sure landed himself a real good one.” The wild twin said.

“And to the lovely Maxence. While we cannot be the ones to make him happy, we at least got to relish in his company for one evening. And that is a memory worth cherishing.” The prim and proper twin added as he held up his Aussie Mule. The pair then downed the remainder of their drinks then stood up and walked over to where Lady Victoria and Junior stood on the sidelines.

“Ah, Mason and Jason. Good to see you both again. But from the looks of things, it seems like I'm seeing you just to say goodbye.” Lady Victoria said with a knowing expression.

“Alas, that is the case Lady Victoria. Mason and I have other matters to tend to with the new merger we just closed. So we'll be quite busy.” Jason replied.

“Yep. Meaning that we won't be able to play with you for a while, tyke! So you gotta toughen up and stay outta trouble without us.” Mason said as he ruffled Junior's hair. The younger Bullmastiff slapped the Kelpie's hand away and growled in agitation.

“Cut it with the 'tyke' shit, Mason. You guys are just three years older than me.” Junior said in a disgruntled tone as he fixed up his hair.

“Well, it was nice to have you both here with us while you could stay.” Lady Victoria said.

“And we enjoyed every minute we spent here, as always.” Jason said as he took out a checkbook, wrote down a number then tore out the slip of paper and handed it to the drag queen. “Here you are. For the charity, dinner and five percent of this goes to Maxence for his spectacular service.”

Lady Victoria took the check and looked it over, her eyes widening slightly before she looked at the twins.

“My, my. This is quite a sizable number. Are you sure about this?” Lady Victoria asked.

“We certainly are, Lady Victoria. It's for the rain forests, after all. And we never leave disappointed when we come here.” Jason replied with a smile.

“And besides, we figured that Maxence could put his share of that check towards somethin' useful.” Mason added. Then paused to look back at the young couple dancing, then gave them one last sad smile of his own. “Like a pretty new dress for his next dance with Braddy.”

“Huh? Next dance?” Junior asked in confusion. At this the wild twin smirked and ruffled his hair once again, this time making an even worse mess of it.

“Never you mind, tyke! Just talkin' aloud! See you folks around!” Mason exclaimed with a boisterous laugh as he went for the exit. Jason rolled his eyes then gave a bow to Lady Victoria as he followed after his brother.

“Jackass! I told you don't call me a tyke!” Junior yelled as he flipped Mason off who just gave a thumbs up without looking back. “Tch! I swear to God, dad. One of these days...POW!! Right in the kisser!”

“I know, I know. To the moon and all.” Lady Victoria said, trying not to laugh at her son's expense.

“But I don't get what he meant by Max getting a new dress to dance with Uppercrust. And why is he dancing with him anyway?” Junior asked while fixing his hair once again.

“It's to be expected.” Lady Victoria said simply.

“To be expected? You knew this would happen?” Junior asked with a look of surprise.

“Mmm hmm.” Lady Victoria said with a single nod.

“But...I don't understand. How?” Junior asked, thoroughly confused. At this the older Bullmastiff gave her son a nostalgic smile before looking back at the dancing couple.

“Because I've been watching 'em. And how they act with each is the same way your mother and I used to act together. Love's just funny like that, son.” Lady Victoria said.

Back on the dance floor Bradley took Maxence's free hand and slowly twirled him around as he picked up the remainder of the song.

“Love was just a glance away. A warm embracing dance away...” Maxence sang, pausing as Bradley twirled him back into his arms. The pair gazed into each other's eyes, baby blue looking into chocolate brown with yearning affection while the eyes of the younger man shined with a boundless delight. Then they picked up their dance one last time, this time their steps livelier than before. “Ever since that night, we've been together. Lovers at first sight! In love forever. It turned out so right, for strangers in the night!”

The band played a few instrumental notes up to the climax of the song while Maxence sang a few little scats as he and Bradley swayed to the music before coming to a stop at the front of the stage. Finally the performance came to an end, and the spotlight turned off with the lights coming back on. The crowd erupted into applause and whistles. Tank, of course, cheered the loudest in support of his best friend. The pair smiled and waved to the crowd. Francine walked over to Maxence took the microphone then spoke to the crowd.

“What did I tell you, folks? I told you that this would be a very special performance! And a little audience participation goes a long way. Thank you all for attending the Annual Dare to Be Generous Charity Gala. Applaud yourselves one last time, kings and queens! You've been truly fabulous!” Francine exclaimed cheerily. The crowed clapped for one last time before finally standing up and gathering their things, getting ready to leave. “Whew! Talk about a showstopper. Nice work, Max. You really wowed the crowd. And you too, Uppercrust. Didn't know you had it in you.”

“Neither did I. But I had some very strong motivation, you might say.” Bradley replied, looking down to Max with a loving gaze which made the younger man blush and smile tenderly at the Saluki. However, his smile soon turned into a shocked expression when he saw the time on the clock on the wall over Bradley's shoulder.

“Crap! I have to head for home! It's almost ten, and my dad is probably worried about me even though I told him I'd be staying at work late. Francine, tell Lady Victoria and the others I said goodbye!” Max stated as he pulled away from Bradley and started to rush for the backstage area.

“Wait!” Bradley exclaimed as he grabbed Max's wrist, stopping him from leaving.

“Bradley, what...?” Before Max could finish his question the slightly older man cut him off in a sudden yell.

“Your number!” Bradley shouted. Max blinked a few times then turned his body to properly face Bradley.

“My what?” Max asked. With his chance now in arm's reach, Bradley summoned all of his resolve and continued.

“I want to keep in touch! I liked meeting you, Maxence! I liked talking to you. I liked dancing with you. I just...like you. So, if it's not too much to ask, I want your phone number.” Bradley explained.

And there it was. The big make or break statement. Max blinked at Bradley with wide eyes full of surprise. Meanwhile Francine, Tyler, Angelique, Tank, Lady Victoria and Junior were all watching from the sidelines seeing how this would go. And Bradley just stood there, heart beating a mile a minute as he waited for an answer.

Then he got it, in the form of that cute little smile that he fell for in the first place.

“Sure.” Max replied. Bradley blinked, now staring at him with his own expression of surprise.

“Sure?” The Saluki parroted back.

“Uh huh. I want to keep in touch with you, too, Bradley. And I had a good time with you tonight also.” Max replied, smiling growing wider as a blush dusted his cheeks.

“R-Really?” Bradley asked in a stutter, his face breaking out into a smile.

“Yeah. But I'm not in my uniform, so I don't have a...” Max started to explain only to stop when Tyler suddenly appeared at his side, holding up his own notepad and ink pen to him, startling the Labradoodle. “...pen and notepad. Thanks, Tyler.”

The otter just gave a supportive wink as he handed the stationary to Max then stepped aside. Max wrote his phone number on a sheet of paper and tore the page out and handed it to Bradley. As he held the paper in his hand the slightly older man smiled like a loon, feeling like he had just gotten the greatest gift of all.

“Thank you, Maxence. I'm truly honored to have...” But Bradley's words were interrupted as Max gave him one last thing. A little kiss on the cheek.

“Just Max from now on. And for the record, I like you too.” Max whispered to Bradley before he turned away and ran off to the backstage. Tyler watched after the fleeing Labradoodle then turned to see the love-struck smile on Bradley's face and gave a snorting chuckle.

“Heh! Well I guess I'll help Max out of that dress and clock out myself. See you folks next time.” Tyler said and waved off the group before going to the backstage area.

Francine then walked over towards Bradley and took a look at his wide, loony smile and the hearts in his eyes – completely in his own world after that kiss and not moving an inch.

“Bradley? You alright, little love?” Francine asked as she snapped her fingers in front of his face. And doing that did elicit a reaction. Just not what the drag queen had expected, which was Bradley falling to the side like a tree after being chopped down. “Oh bother. Looks like we'll have to get the trolley from the service entrance and carry him out to a taxi.”

“Like Hell we're wasting company property on this punk! Get a broom and sweep his scrawny ass out!” Junior stated as he walked over along with Lady Victoria and Angelique to check over the fallen heir. Just then Tank came over with a nonchalant gait.

“No need for either one, people. This ain't my first rodeo of uplifting an Uppercrust.” The large bulldog said.

“Emotionally or literally?” Angelique asked.

“Both.” Tank confirmed with a roll of his eyes. Then he remembered something as he pulled out the check Bradley had written earlier and handed it to Lady Victoria. “Oh yeah, and Bradley said to give this to ya. For the charity event and all that.”

“Much obliged, Tank. Always nice having you both here. You boys get home safely.” Lady Victoria said as she took the check.

“We will, ma'am. Alright, sweetheart, let's go. Our taxi's waitin'.” Tank said and with a good old heave-ho he picked Bradley up in one motion then made his way for the exit.

All the while, the from the taxi drive back to campus to when he woke up the next morning in his room at the Gamma House, all Bradley could think of was that kiss from Max. How he said he liked him. Immediately Bradley dialed the number Max had given him – and his heart fluttered when he heard that voice again. From there it was a Domino Effect of getting to know each other. Bradley told Max about how he used to garden with his Grandmum Abigail, and Max told him about the days he spent baking desserts with his Grandma Goof. The Saluki talked about how his first love before skateboarding was martial arts, and the Labradoodle shared that his was singing which didn't really surprise Bradley given the performance he put on at the cabaret.

But in the months that they spent talking, there was one thing about Max that Bradley couldn't get him to confess to.

“Come on, Max, what college are you going to next year? You've told me everything else about yourself.” Bradley said on his end of the phone on day.

“And I told you, even I have to have one secret. But trust me; you'll find out soon enough Brad.” Max said.

“It's Brad-ley!” Bradley corrected.

“Yeah, but you're the third Bradley. I have to differentiate and tell my favorite one apart from the other two somehow. Gotta go now, I'm helping Bobby and his folks sort through their old medical book collection. Take care, Brad!” Max called out cheerily before he hung up.

“You little brat!” Bradley yelled into his cellphone, even though he knew that Max wouldn't have heard it. But then his pout of discontent turned into a smile. “I'm still his favorite, huh? Well...I guess I can put up with Brad. As long as it's from Max, at least.”

The sound of kissing noises and the poor imitation of violins at his bedroom door made Bradley whip around to see his main Gamma brothers standing there with some making kissy faces, Kevin holding Federico and stroking his face as if to emulate him and Max while the others pretended to play instruments. The Saluki blushed brightly at the display and charged at his fraternity brothers who immediately ran away laughing.

“Don't get angry at us, Brad! You're our favorite, too!” Boris called from his place in the group as they ran away.

“Fuck off!!” Bradley yelled back as he continued to chase after his main Gamma brothers.

One year later...

You know, it's really surprising how much can change in just one year. Yet, at the same time, no matter how much change occurs we can still see the person or thing for what they or it used to be from the old form we remember them or it from. That was the case for Bradley. While he is a prodigy in his own right with a photographic memory – he didn't think he'd recognize Max out of his Maxence persona. That he wouldn't be able to spot the Labradoodle out of a sequin evening gown or a bunny suit.

And yet, as he and Tank were playing volleyball out on the front lawn of the frat house one fateful early afternoon on a sunny spring day with the rest of the main Gammas and some sorority chicks watching, he did. A blur of sable black fur and loppy ears skated past the Gamma House with a similar grace that moved past his VIP booth at the Fabulous Dare. It was enough to make Bradley turn his head to look, and his eyes widened in shock. There was no mistaking who was on that skateboard. The movement, the charisma and of course those cute little buck teeth. It was him. Max. His Max, and he was right here at Welig University. Now the younger man's reason for not sharing the name of his college made sense. If he knew Bradley as much as he did, then he definitely knew that the Saluki attended this college. So he was coming here to surprise him. Just for him...

“Whoa! Did you see that?” Kevin's voice asked in surprise, snapping Bradley out of his thoughts.

“Well, well, well. Look what the freshmen cat dragged in, baby. Some new meat!” Tank stated with a look of excitement at some new students to terrorize. Immediately Bradley turned around to face the large bulldog and glared at him.

“Absolutely not! That new meat is strictly off limits!” Bradley stated.

“Huh? How come?” Tank asked in confusion. Bradley leaned closer and whispered to his best friend, explaining everything. With every word Tank's eyes widened in realization. And by the end of it he leaned back and looked the fraternity head in shock. “Seriously!? That was him?!”

“Without a doubt, big fella. Hence why he's off limits. Same goes for his friends.” Bradley said.

“Shit, Bradley. I didn't even realize. My bad, sweetheart.” Tank apologized.

“Him who, Bradley? What's goin' on?” Shades asked as he stepped forward.

“I'll explain on the way. For now, we follow that new meat. Gammas, roll!” Bradley ordered. Without any delay he and the main Gamma members all ran back into the frat house, got dressed and got on their skateboards as they raced after Max and his friends.

Eventually the Gammas followed Max and his little group to the campus cafe, the Bean Scene. Bradley made sure to take note of this. He wondered if Max preferred tea, coffee or hot chocolate? What kind of little pastries he liked to have with his brews? Trying to keep his cool and not act like a total noob Bradley kicked his skateboard out from under him and followed after the freshmen trio once they went down into the cafe. As he and the Gammas made their way down, Bradley searched the crowd to find Max. However he only saw his friends as they sat at a table to listen to a poet on stage, some Abyssinian cat chick whose name he doesn't really recall, recited her rhymes. But seeing the cafe's stage just made Bradley nostalgic for that night at the Fabulous Dare last year. Once the Abyssinian poet concluded her verbal performance the lights turned back on, and Tank caught Bradley's attention to point out some good news.

“Check it out, Bradley. He's over there.” Tank said, gesturing to the coffee bar where Max was standing not five feet away, ordering drinks for him and his friends. “Wow, I can't believe that's the same bunny boy who served us all that food while in heels that night. And he didn't even complain once.”

“Tch! He's already a better person than me. I woulda given the place my two weeks and gave you two middle ones before I so much as passed you a bottle of cider in anything higher than sneakers.” Shades said with a scoff.

Slouch gave a few grunts, then cackled at his own garbled words.

“Heh, heh. Right, Slouch. It's probably just as well. Shades as a bunny boy would make that cabaret lose money.” Boris said which made the rest of the Gammas laugh to which the bull terrier flipped them off.

Bradley shook his head in amusement at his friends before he looked back at Max. Steeling his nerves he decided to go and finally greet the young man he had come to adore so much. Passing his helmet to Tank the senior slicked his hair back and walked over to Max. However, Bradley got too close and failed to anticipate the Labradoodle's sudden pivoting of his body as he turned around and accidentally slammed a cup of java into his stomach. Resulting in a stain on his burgundy cardigan.

“Ah!” Bradley groaned from the hot sting of the coffee.

“Oh my God! I'm so sorry, I...” Max paused in his apology when he got a good look at who the person was, then blinked. “Br...Bradley?”

“The one and only. At least as far as Welig University goes. But I guess you need the heels on to compensate for handling drinks. Huh, Maxence?” Bradley asked with a teasing smile. Again Max blinked before his face broke out into a fond smile as he chuckled and sat the coffee to the side.

“Heh, heh, heh. Guess I do. So. Surprised to see me here?” Max asked.

“Yes. Very much so. But not as surprised as Tank was. He didn't recognize you until I told him.” Bradley replied, gesturing to his Gamma brothers at the entrance who waved to him and the freshman waved back.

“Well he only saw me in fishnets and then a dress a year ago. Besides I had on make-up and was actually looking pretty for once. So I can't really blame him for not realizing the average Joe skater was the same bunny boy who poured your drinks.” Max said.

“True, but you're far from average Max. I think we can both agree on that. Plus...I think you're pretty even now without the make-up.” Bradley said, smiling and not even trying to fight the blush that was forming on his cheeks. The sweet words had the same effect on Max; making him smile and blush. Additionally his loppy ears reached up on their own to try and hide his blushing cheeks.

“Hey, better be careful with what you say Brad. You don't want to ruin your reputation being too complimentary to freshmen.” Max said as he brushed back his ears.

“Ah, to Hell with that! I wore socks with sandals in public once. What's a few kind words to a special person?” Bradley asked. “So, how about we take this to one of the booths and talk further? I think our friends found each other and are starting to pick their brains without us.”

Max looked over to where Bradley was pointing and saw Shades and Bobby were wearing each other's respective spectacles, Bobby dramatically wailing about how he was blind by how dark the other's sunglasses were and the senior saying that he felt high just from wearing the freshman's purple sunglasses while the others tried to calm them down. That same Abyssinian poet even came over to assist P.J. with Bobby.

“Ha, ha, ha, ah-hyuck! Yeah, we probably should step in. Just let me order new coffees for me and the guys.” Max said.

“No, no! Allow me. Think of it as a token of good will from the future X-Games winner.” Bradley said, puffing his chest out in pride as he handed his credit card to the barista who accepted it and proceeded to make three more coffees.

“Future X-Games winner? That's a little presumptuous, don't you think?” Max asked with crossed arms. At this Bradley looked at the younger man with a raised eyebrow.

“Oh? Are you trying to imply that you're going to be the winner, freshman?” Bradley asked in a challenging tone with a grin.

“Maybe I am, Brad. Wanna bet on it?” Max asked with a grin of his own.

“Sure. If I win, you take that bunny suit out of retirement and serve me for the rest of the semester.” Bradley said, eyes burning with determined lust. Max felt a thrilling chill go up his spine but didn't back down.

“Fine. But if I win, you have to work at the Fabulous Dare for a whole summer being the errand boy for the drag queens.” Max said.

“Just to clarify; that's the drag queens only, right? Not Junior included by extension?” Bradley asked.

“Yes, for the queens only. And I'll even put it in writing, so Junior doesn't try any power trips.” Max affirmed.

“In that case, deal.” Bradley said and held out his hand, to which Max shook firmly. “But really, I win regardless.”

“Huh? What do you mean?” Max asked. At this, Bradley gave a sincere smile and gave the slightly younger man a kiss on the cheek similar to the one that Max gave him just last year.

“I'll get to spend time with you either way.” Bradley replied. Max blinked in surprise at the sudden gesture before smiling widely.

“I guess that means it's a tie, then.” The Labradoodle said.

“Ahem! Not to be rude, but if you two lovebirds could take your coffees and step out of the line so other people could order, everyone else can win. This is the Bean Scene. Not a romance scene.” The barista spoke up, cutting into the sweet reunion.

Max and Bradley immediately looked up to see the deadpan looking female canine barista holding out the newly made coffees, then looked behind them to see their equally unimpressed students who were not pleased to be a part of their tender moment. Although one young woman did give a supportive thumbs up from the back of the line, at least. The Saluki and Labradoodle gave quick apologizes to the building line and barista before taking the coffees and going off to join their friends.

All in all, Max's part-time job really paid off. Both for college and his love life.