章 24: Chapter 24: Resolve

Loxus PoV

As he opened the door, Loxus was greeted by a chorus of meows. Dusk, his little furball, was sprawled lazily on the worn-out couch, getting his fur groomed by Brick.

Seeing the big, burly guy gently handling the tiny creature always managed to bring a smile to Loxus's face. It was heartwarming, the bond that had formed between the two.

"Hey, Loxus," Brick greeted, not taking his eyes off Dusk. "How'd the tryouts go?"

"I made it," Loxus announced, his voice holding a hint of pride. "I'm on the team."

Brick's face broke out into a wide grin. "That's awesome, man! Congrats!"

Dusk, hearing the excitement in their voices, lifted his head and let out a soft mewl, his blue-green eyes meeting Loxus's.

Loxus felt his heart tighten at the sight. How was he supposed to break the news to them? How was he supposed to tell them that he was moving out, that he had to leave Dusk behind?

He took a deep breath, pushing the thoughts to the back of his mind. There was no point worrying about it now. He had to focus on the present, on the upcoming challenges. He had to focus on the nationals.

For now, he decided to enjoy the moment. To enjoy the victory and the company of his friends. He knew that no matter what happened, they would always be there for him.

And as for Dusk, he knew that he would find a way to keep him close. No matter what it took, he was not going to abandon his little furball.

"Let's celebrate," Loxus said, forcing a smile onto his face.

Brick frowned. "Boss, is something bothering you?"

Loxus sighed. "I remembered that I need to move into the dorms for my first year at Kallen. So I need to leave Dusk with you guys, but..."

"You don't wanna say goodbye, do you?"

Loxus looked at Brick, his eyes reflecting his internal struggle. "Yeah," he admitted, his voice barely above a whisper. "I don't want to say goodbye to him."

Brick nodded, his expression understanding. "Hey, it's not really a goodbye, boss. It's just a... see you later. We'll take good care of Dusk while you're away."

Loxus knew Brick was right. It wasn't a permanent farewell. He'd still be able to see Dusk during breaks and whenever he had time to visit. But it wouldn't be the same. He wouldn't be able to wake up to Dusk purring on his chest or come home to be greeted by his playful antics.

Brick seemed to sense his turmoil. "Listen, boss," he said, his voice firm. "You've got a big opportunity ahead of you. You've got a chance to play at Kallen, to make a name for yourself and your ancestors' school. And I bet Dusk would want you to give it your all."

Loxus sighed, running a hand through his hair. "Yeah, you're right," he said, trying to muster a smile. "I should focus on the opportunity I've been given."

He looked at Dusk, the small feline now napping peacefully on the couch. He knew he had to do what was best for both of them. But seeing the kitten sleeping only made him want to sneak him into the dorms.

"I'm thinking of sneaking him in," Loxus confessed, his gaze still on the peacefully sleeping kitten.

Brick raised an eyebrow, a smirk tugging at the corner of his mouth. "Sneaking him in, huh? And what if your dormmate discovers him?"

Loxus shrugged. "I'll deal with that when it comes. Maybe they'll fall in love with Dusk too and keep our secret."

Brick chuckled, shaking his head. "You're taking a big risk, boss. But I can't blame you. Dusk is hard to resist."

Loxus knew it was risky. If he got caught, he could get kicked out of the dorms or even face disciplinary actions from the university. But the thought of leaving Dusk behind was more unbearable than any consequences he could face.

He glanced at Brick, a determined look in his eyes. "I have to try, Brick. I can't just leave him."

Brick nodded, his expression serious. "I get it, boss. And we've got your back, no matter what. If things get tough, you know you can always count on us."

Loxus felt a wave of gratitude wash over him. He was lucky to have friends like these. Friends who understood him, who were willing to support him no matter what.

He smiled, his heart feeling a little lighter. "Thanks, Brick. I appreciate it."

With a newfound resolve, Loxus turned his gaze back to Dusk. He was willing to take the risk, to face the challenges that lay ahead. Because he knew that no matter what happened, he wouldn't be facing it alone.

"Hey, Boss!" Sand yelled, walking inside. He carried a large bag of rice.

Loxus blinked. "Why did you get a sack of rice?"

He laughed. "For the feast!"

"To celebrate your victory," Rubber said, smirking as he walked in with a wok.

"Leave the cooking to us," Concrete said, chuckling as he carried bags full of peas, carrots, and other fruits and vegetables.

"Steel will set up the table," Sand chimed in, grinning from ear to ear.

Loxus looked around at his friends, his heart swelling with gratitude. Despite the challenge he was facing, he knew he had a solid support system. They were more than friends; they were his family.

He felt a small tug on his pants and looked down to see Dusk rubbing against his leg, purring softly. Loxus reached down, scratching behind his ears. No matter what, he was going to make this work. For Dusk, for his friends, and for himself.

"Alright, let's get this celebration started!" Loxus declared, his worries momentarily forgotten as he got swept up in the excitement.

The house was filled with laughter and the smell of delicious food as they cooked and joked around. They reminisced about their past grand heists. Which made Loxus think about their future.

"Rubber, you'll be leading the gang while I'm gone," Loxus announced, his gaze serious.

Rubber blinked, taken aback by the sudden announcement. "Me, boss? Are you sure?"

Loxus nodded, his decision firm. "You've got a good head on your shoulders, Rubber. You're loyal and you've got the respect of the others. There's no one better for the job."

Rubber swallowed, feeling a wave of responsibility wash over him. "I won't let you down, boss."

"I know you won't," Loxus replied, clapping him on the shoulder. "You've got this."

The rest of the night passed in a blur of laughter, good food, and camaraderie. Despite the underlying tension of Loxus's impending departure and the change in leadership, the group managed to enjoy the night, celebrating their recent victory and the challenges to come.

As the night drew to a close, Loxus found himself standing alone in the living room, Dusk curled up at his feet. He could still hear the other guys joking and laughing upstairs. He was going to miss this.

With a deep sigh, he scooped Dusk into his arms, the kitten purring softly against his chest. "We've got a big week ahead of us, buddy," he murmured, scratching behind Dusk's ears.

The kitten purred, causing him to laugh. Bringing Dusk with him was the right choice, he knew it.