Archive of Our Own ^beta

12 hours.

It had been 12 hours since Mafuyu last left her home, although her shifts were usually long and tiring. It’s what made her happy, and brought apart of her that feeling of warmth whenever she saw another patient getting discharged with a smile, walking out hand in hand with their loved ones-

But right now, the ravenette was running through the rain in hopes to get back to her car before she got sick from the pouring rain.

It was just her luck that the dark sky began to become painted with equally as dark clouds which were nearly invisible, nonetheless, after just a few minutes of the poor nurse stepping out the facility that the sky began to cry.

No scratch that.

They were sobbing, as the heavy sounds of water droplets clashing with the pavement drowned out any other noise, the girl didn’t even have an umbrella- causing her purple curls to hang irritatingly along her cheeks and neck while she held onto her work bag and headed towards the bus stop.

Clutching the collar of her beige coloured coat, pulling it up to her nose to make sure she didn’t catch a cold. The ravenette ran through the empty streets, the lights of many stores still on yet no one dared to step out in the unforgiving weather.

Mafuyu herself was beginning to question whether or not she should call a driver to pick her up- as the rainstorm picked up. Even if the girl had made it to the bus stop without getting wet, she’d still have to run that five minute path to her house after being dropped off.

And with how annoyingly freezing the drops of water felt, mixed in with her now soaked attire, Mafuyu believed that ceasing to exist wouldn’t be all that bad right now.

….

However the lyricist was currently on a mission- and a quite important one at that. You see, if it were just costing the ravenette’s expense of never showing up again she’d evaporate within a heartbeat due to her current situation-

But of course a certain someone had to call her just as she finished her shift.

And remembering the daring, strict conditions she was under right now.

Mafuyu had to prevail through the harsh rain.

“Hey ‘fuyu, I’m sorry to be calling right after you’ve just gotten off work but- remember that connivence store that’s beside that small playground? Yeah uh- h-hey geez-!”

On the other end of the audio voicemail, an audible familiar laugh was heard, followed by a sting of curses before the line was presumably back in the earlier voice’s hands

“Gah- I swear to God you f- oh it’s still on-?! Ah- I was saying could you be such a sweetheart and bring back a slice of- two slices of cheesecake…? Oh and those microwaveable French fries for ‘Zuki-…!”

Then, suddenly the line cut off after the sound of what seemed to be the phone being slapped off the speakers hands, falling and abruptly ending the voicemail.

Tired purple eyes rolled in both annoyance yet slight humour at the girl’s fighting on the other end, so- just this time (no, unfortunately she’s too down bad to ever reject her girlfriends) Mafuyu would take the extra few minutes to stop and buy the requested items.

‘Why the hell did I agree…?’

The ravenette thought to herself, mentally sighing as she tried to cover the white plastic bag containing the goods under her arm for it to not get soaked. But it was proving to be quite a harder task than initially thought.

The loud pattering of the rain accompanied by the sounds of horns and cars drifting on collected puddles irked the nurse in an indescribable way. Her socks were wet and uncomfortable as she ran, not to mention the stop was still an agonizing good two point five minutes away-

Mafuyu could visibly see her breath take a vapor form in the cold air, but she had good stamina after all those sports tryouts back in high school which just now proved to be useful, thankfully.

Luckily, the world took mercy on the sopping drenched girl, as the bus stop came into sight like a drop of water in a blazing desert-

no, no more water, please

Sighing, the girl slowed down her pace, the actual bus has yet to come, but the shelter was more than enough to satisfy her uncomfortable mind right now, and any roof could work.

Just as the ravenette reached the small clear structure, she stepped inside. Finally placing the plastic bag down gently on the bench provided, saving the now aching arms which went numb quite awhile ago.

As Mafuyu brushed her wet hair which clung to her irritatingly- the softest- faintest sound could be heard-

Snuff…

Snuff.…..

And then a weird, almost squeal like noise rang through her eardrums-

Huh….

The ravenette got up, glancing at the small rectangular curbside garden which had a small bush of some wilting flowers, as well as a few sage green bushes and tall grass which had a yellowish brown color.

Slowly stepping into the doorway of the bus stop’s shelter, violet eyes landed on one of the smaller forages of decaying flowers which were currently having an onslaught attack of droplets…

Her gaze hardened, she was sure that weird sound was coming from that area…

She stared…

And stared….

And stared…

And then the most subtle movement was seen-

Her eyes immediately opened, before absentmindedly taking a step out into the down pouring rain which returned the damp girl back to her soaked state.

However the nurse didn’t seem to mind, or even pay attention to the same cold feeling at all, keeping her gaze locked onto those bushes. Before another subtle russle was visible in them.

Followed by the sound of a sneeze.

Okay, Mafuyu was seriously starting to think that she had that same horrid fever one of her lovers caught awhile back, or perhaps she’d finally lost the line of sanity no one really had.

Because the next second, the ravenette was kneeled down beside the curb. Her black pants becoming soaked at the contact with the wet pavement. But the lyricist couldn’t care less in that moment.

Extending her pair of arms, slender yet calloused hands started moving aside branches and leaves. The scrabbles of damp dirt staining pale skin as they worked diligently to toss aside any material in her way-

After nearly ripping apart half the vegetation, a small, trembling figure sat hunched up in the open hedge.

Its nose twitched with the floppy ears along the bundle of fluff’s head, its tiny little paws kneading the muddy dirt underneath it. Whose fur resembled a lot like the ravenette’s hands- drenched in freezing water and covered in splotches of soil.

Shaky blue eyes stared up at much larger purple ones.

Mafuyu sucked in a breath- it was just a bunny…that’s good, at least it wasn’t a human crying out in the rain like she’d initially thought it was.

And yet.

The nurse kneeled there, looming over the bush, not making a move to stand up. Locked in a trance with those giant orbs that seemed so frightened.

The bunny stared right back, another shiver ran through its frame, but it couldn’t escape the rain.

And it seemed both party’s knew that.

The small creatures eyes looked up at the figure towering over it, shrinking into itself. Hiding in a half broken bush with perhaps another minute of poorly promised shelter before it all inevitably collapsed down on it.

The ravenette felt her breathing stop for a few seconds, this sight looked so sickening to her, something deep within a now blossomed heart starkly reminded it of its cold distant memories. But just what about a small animal could provoke such a reaction…?

Narrowing her purple eyes, a flash of emotion sprung in the girls chest.

It…

It looked like herself

Something about the way it cowered in the rain, droplets falling off from leafs onto its tiny little head with a plop. Then slowly dragging down along its fur to pool in the blue orbs, creating a look like the bunny was crying, sparked a flashback to a very similar moment.

Back when the lyricist had first run away during high school, running away in the rain to her supposed saviour’s doorstep before breaking down into consoling thin arms. Mimicked much too many aspects of this current situation.

Mafuyu could feel her heartbeat pickup underneath the layers of clothing, breathing becoming more harsher just like the small animal’s.

Until the sound of wheels rolling closer and stopping pulled the nurse out of her thoughts-

Oh that’s right, the bus.

It seems that the vehicle had finally pulled into the stop- waiting for any oncoming riders.

She should leave, she should be rushing towards the ticket to get back to a lovely warm home as soon as possible-

but that look…

The bunny’s nose twitched, before it finally moved- hopping a little leap closer.

The creature glances up, big pleading blue orbs-

Oh

That looked familiar too…

Didn’t a certain short, yet oh so caring bluenette have that same look when their other two lovers would bicker a bit too harshly….?

Kanade…?

….

Without another heartbeat, Mafuyu moved her hands from the muddy ground to instead tenderly scoop up the small animal, tucking its frame into her coat before running into the bus’ shelter, swiftly picking up the bag of food then moving up the stairs, finally sitting down into a comfortable atmosphere as the vehicle started to move again.

Placing the plastic bag on an empty seat beside her, the ravenette lifted her coat to reveal the same little mammal, who was now much less shaken. Setting the freezing body onto her warmer lap, allowing a hand to softly caress its fuzzy forehead as the bunny tilted its head into the girls touch.

Warm

And a tiny, faint smile made it way to the girls lips.

After a short run (which ended up being more of a speed walk due to carrying a small, critter underneath her coat) Mafuyu finally reached the door step to her four way shared household, quickly walking up to the porch and taking out her keys, even though both hands were occupied, fiddling around with them while trying to insert it into the keyhole before a click was finally heard.

Pushing open the door, revealed a cozy sight. The inside of their house always had a small dim living room light on always, no matter the time becuase of all of the inhabitants insomnia problems, so more often than not one would go in the middle of the night just to eat leftovers in the kitchen or to grab a glass of much needed water.

The ravenette then stepped in, attempting to kick her shoes off before walking over to their counter in the kitchen. Placing the bag atop it as she crouched down near the floor.

Slipping off her damp coat, she began to spread it out on the ground like a makeshift carpet in preparation for the shivering body underneath her.

Gently lowering her hands to the floor- the little creature hopped out, looking much more warmer and in a sense, more comfortable now inside the heated atmosphere.

Mafuyu glanced over its body, there were still faint stains of mud on its cloudy white fur, with its natural occasional grey spots. But more noticeably it seems that the bunny’s fur was much more fluffier. Long, floppy eara also looking more relaxed as its pink nose twitched.

Extending an arm to softly stroke its back, the soft pitter patter of something other than the animals tiny paws could be heard from a distance-

Until a figure stood in the kitchens doorway, sleep riddled blue eyes staring at Mafuyu’s with a conflicted yet exhausted expression as orbs glanced from the counter to the floor, puzzled she started slowly moving over to the other

“Welcome back-…how was y-“ the soft voice paused as their eyes landed on the small figure currently rubbing its face on the floor, little dust particles flying off as the animal paid no mind

“Hi Kanade”

…..

“Hi…?”

The composer then moved to sit down on her knees beside the lyricist, staring at the animal in confusion.

Mafuyu then looked from the bunny to Kanade, then from Kanade to the bunny, and then back to Kanade with a remorseful dulled expression

“It looked cold in the rain” She stated, until a vaguely familiar burning feeling beginning to spread within the girls chest, one which mimicked the same feeling whenever her elbow accidentally knocked down a glass, or when she’d forget to text anyone about her absence for the evening and then get scolded 

From the pure amount of emotions which were swirling inside her at that moment near the bus stop, she had completely forgotten to call and ask if bringing the creature home was okay, and thus, this was the result.

Now the ravenette felt really anxious- none of them had ever brought up pets or anything, and when their tallest lover would joke about keeping any stray cat they found alongside the rode, it was immediately shrugged off.

“I didn’t…” Mafuyu tried to form a sentence, she had to defend the small critter from being shoved back into the rain-

“Oh- it looks really cold”

…

Well…

when it comes to Kanade at least, Mafuyu could probably burn the house down and not get in trouble, just maybe

Purple orbs watched as blue ones slowly scooped the small animal up, placing a frail hand under its stomach and one near the valley of its back as she pulled it onto her lap.

The nurse watched closely at the bunny’s reaction to touch, and the animal seemed as happy as ever with its muted expression

Moving its pink nose as the creature sniffed around Kanade- even going up on hind legs to place a pair of nimble paws onto the shorter girls stomach, eliciting a sweet laugh.

The bluenette then began to pet the bunny across its ample muzzle, staring down at it with such fondness

They both sat in dim, comfortable silence for awhile, before a gentle voice broke the dawned question

“So Mafuyu, what are you planning to do with- er- her… him..?” The girl commented, moving her eyes back to the guilty purple ones

What was she going to do now?

Mafuyu hadn’t planned to bring home a animal- let alone have a single clue on where to go from here

“I don’t know…” Mafuyu sighed, shifting over to lean against the shorter’s shoulder, moving her hand to stroke along the critters back.

“But I don’t want to leave her alone outside again” the ravenette remarked, this time more stern as that same distant memory came back. Causing a subtle scowl to form on the girls face

“I see, how did you find them?” Kanade asked as darker blue eyes met pale blue, the bunny seemingly attempting to crawl up the girls shirt only to be pushed down back to her lap, thumping its hind foot which earned a confused stare.

“I found her outside near the bus stop, but it was raining really bad so I kind of… brought her here” the taller replied, sighing as she retracted her hand, placing it on the floor beside her instead.

Kanade then scooped the bun up from under its arms, holding it up to her face level, squinting her eyes as if examining it, before moving it towards Mafuyu

“Maybe you can keep her- if you’d like?”

…..

Keep it?

Like as a pet?

Mafuyu blinked once, then twice, narrowing her vision at the animal- sure it was cute and all, but not once in a lifetime did the ravenette ever had the chance to look after a pet, and was never allowed to.

Nonetheless- there was something so off in the bunny’s eyes, the pale blue orbs looked so big and innocent, a stark contrast to its former state. Yet the blue pools still seemed comforting in a way that was familiar, a way that reminded the girl of someone else

Moving her gaze slightly to the right, peering over at her shortest lover- Mafuyu was met with slightly darker eyes, yet ones that carried that same big innocent comfort.

oh

They’re really warm

The orbs furrowed- right, she was beginning to stare a bit too much

Mafuyu then glanced back at the critter, taking its soft warm body into her own hands, carefully swaddling it.

“I think I’d like that”

_____________________________

In the middle of a very- very heated UNO match between two equally stubborn players, one being a playful, lively, adorable pinkette, and the latter being a shorter, tempered yet attentive and softhearted brunette.

Currently, both were death staring one another, placing down the coloured cards with absolute strategy, after all this situation was the closest thing to life and death.

“Aha~! Pick up four my dear Enanan- oh and change the colour to pink!”

“Lucky jerk- hey-! And it’s red not pink-?”

The taller then moved her cards up to their mouth to hide a cat like grin, before simply shrugging

“Better luck next time, and remember the deal! Loser has to do one itty bitty dare- rightttt~?” The girl cooed, placing down a blue three atop the red three

Time went on and on, both of their focuses were only on the card game in front of them made for infants- until suddenly Mizuki saw it-

Her chance to finally boss the other girl around for any one thing- she’ll have to absolutely comply no matter what- perhaps she could make the shorter take her out to a shopping trip? Or even finally allow her to adopt a-

“Oh- UNO-!” The brunette exclaimed, flashing a quickly lived smug smirk to the other, pink eyes widened- her mouth slightly parted as those very same words were ripped right out her own mouth

“Gah- whatever” The pinkette huffed, showing any signs of defeat would just be a key for the artist to laugh right at her- so playing it off should suffice for the time being… right?

Mizuki then grudgingly picked up four penalty cards from the now very small pile, before placing down a green plus two

…..

After what felt like hours (7 minutes) Mizuki only had two cards- as opposed to Ena’s three. However with how her luck was being today it seems this exchange would quickly become the opposite.

A red four

A red eight

The call of UNO

A plus two red

Another call of UNO

The Pinkette draws two cards

Until

No way…

Somehow- the animator picked up a yellow seven and a green seven, which meant that her red seven would pair quite nicely-! All she had to do was place them down to at long last win-! Oh this wretched game would be over…and she’d be crowned winner, so all that was left was to-

“He~he~heh, I w-“

“MAFUYU-!?“

The pinkette nearly leapt backwards off her own bed, instead, flinging her cards accidentally into the air as pink orbs watched their sweet victory get blown away…

slapping a hand aganst her chest, the girl dramatically conversed a death scene, obnoxiously sucking in loud breaths through her gritted teeth

“Noooo….Enaemon….ad…venge me…” Mizuki croaked, teasingly falling flat onto her stomach as she lifted up a hand in feigned pain. Making a small grunt as she allowed it to fall onto the bed underneath her-

However instead of a laugh like she intended- the bed raised after a sudden weight was lifted from it.

Turning her head in mild confusion, the fashion designer squinted her eyes, about to ask why her beloved brunette had suddenly abandoned the poor lonely girl before the spectacle whuch met her eyes grew out an impish smile

The sight of Ena attacking their purple lover with a towel formed in her vision, the shorter girl viciously rubbing the cloth against ravenette locks, while the victim merely stood there like a sad, scolded puppy.

“Heyheyhey- you’re gonna rip off her head ya’know~!” The tallest girl called out form her position on the bed, not bothering to question why Mafuyu was soaked in water with a giggling Kanade behind her-

no… her previous loss was too much to sulk for. 

Reluctantly, doing a neat little summersault on the bed into a standing position, the pinknette curiously walked over to the three, placing a hand on the artist’s shoulder which somewhat spooked the other from her gentle yelling frenzy 

“Haha… uh Ena? I think your ripping out her hair” She squinted, slightly wincing at the glare which was shot her way

“This idiot just got back- and ran in the rain without an umbrella!” The brunette huffed, making a clicking sound with her tongue. Brown eyes rolled, before sending an equally scolding glare up to the lyricist, a glare which was now instead hiding a shade of concern in them

“I didn’t mean to-“ A guilt ridden voice tried speaking

“And you-! Geez- was it pouring cats and dogs? I swear if you somehow end up as sick as I was a few weeks ago I’m banning everyone in this household from going outside!!” She sternly stated, pulling down the taller’s head to rub the towel on the back of their hair

Mizuki simply grinned at watching the display, before turning over to stare at their shortest girlfriend, slipping past the bickering old couple to give a few small pats on the blunette’s head to which the other reciprocated with a smile.

“Make sure they don’t bite each others heads off m’kay? I’m going to get ‘Fuyu some clean-“

Achoo-

….

Purr purr…

“Oh I forgot to tell you two- Mafuyu is keeping a bunny“

“BUNNY-!!!!??!” Mizuki squealed, eyes widening as they started making very obscene grabby hands at it, sparkles practically flying off them.

“Oh my gosh- ITS SO CUTE~” She squeaked again, the cuteness aggression getting to her head a bit too much as she basically shook in place, the commotion gaining the attention of their perviously occupied, two other girlfriends.

“Hah-? What’s all this- the hell-!?”

“I brought it home…”

Kanade instinctively brought a hand up to soothingly stroke the bunny’s ears, even finding herself shrinking back from the sudden array of loud noises

“Ah- Mafuyu said she found it outside in the rain, she’d like to keep it” The shortest said, fondly glancing down at the warm body in her arms

The pinkette however, was being torn apart in two- finally, a worthy rival for the cutest creature alive… her day has come…!

On the contrary, a certain brunette was not as ecstatic, sporting a more solemn expression. The tallest felt a hand lace with hers, probably to stop the animator from squishing the poor thing alive.

“Listen- we can’t keep it, none of us have ever had a pet before for as long as I can remember-…” The artist sighed, Mizuki watched as she turned around to face the violet stare

“Baby, I know it’s cute and all- but it’s also a living animal, we don’t have any of its necessities nor does anyone of us understand how to properly care for one, we barely even have enough free time, and your job requires a strict schedule…”

The brunette softly said, even though she seemed to be quite indifferent

The fashionista was always attentive, perhaps not as responding as Ena, or outwardly patient as Kanade, but she could always pick up on the littlest of signs, and she saw how the honey brown eyes beamed at the sight of a tiny little creature before being scared away by fake irritation.

Like in a cartoon, a sudden light popped up in Mizuki’s head, turning to Ena as she clasped her hands together- begging.

“Oh pleaseee? Wouldn’t it be a great uh- companion for Mafuyu…? After all if it makes her feel warm then it surely is much more than a mere animal! Just look at its adorable face, it even resembles Kanade~!” The pinkette pleaded, getting on her knees as she peered up at a very flustered brunette

“W-wha…”

Purple locks then came into her peripheral vision- the sent of cinnamon apples filling her senses as a hidden mischievous smile laid under pursed lips

“It’ll help me sleep better too, in the hospital we allow patients to visit a support animal in order to calm them down, you always complain about how I get dark circles from not relaxing enough after shifts so having a companion like Mizuki said, could put me at ease more when I’m at home with you all…” A blank yet subtly desperate voice added along to the energetic pinknette’s- and before she knew it another voice joined the protest.

A smaller body kneeled down to the right of Mizuki, a white bunny being raised up gently like an offering, its head tilted up as two little teeth poked out

“Please…? We all promised to help Mafuyu discover who she truly is, and we’ve come such a long way, surely giving her a pet is a new responsibility which can show how she feels about nurturing for others like how we do to her?” The soft voice explained, their composer slightly tilted her head while staring up- putting her baby face to work as the azure eyes turned glossy

Mizuki’s plotting grin only grew harder to hold back as now all three very lovely ladies begged to a flushed Ena, the artist stumbling over to words because-

Let’s be real, who could say no in this situation?

With the world’s most exaggerated sigh, the brunette pitched her nose bridge, eyeing them all but not too much as triple puppy eyes was a death sentence.

“….”

“…..?”

Please please please please pleaseeeee

“ Gah-! Fine fine…but you Miss’ Nurse will be taking full responsibility and I don’t want to find any hair on my clothes” Ena declared, putting her hands on ether sides of her hips, pointing sternly at Mafuyu before moving her finger

“And you-! Since our dear new bunny mother cannot stay home all the time, you’ll be looking over it when she’s away” To which a small nod was received along with a salute, the blunette pulling the animal back near her chest, before the critter nuzzled into her shirt

“And lastly- since I don’t trust ether of those two to be able to shop, your getting all the necessary stuff it will need to live” The brunette then crossed her arms as she finished her lecture, each worshipper slowly standing up with an exited light in their eyes, some more mellow than others

Mizuki watched as their composer gently passed the small creature to its owner, the ravenette eagerly taking the tiny mammal into her arms as both girlfriends walked together towards Mafuyu’s room, presumably to get the bunny used to its living space.

The pink gaze then landed on brown, brown meeting pink for a split second before pulling away bashfully with a small defiant ‘hmph’

A smile then spread on the pinkette’s lips, skipping over to their so graciously giving girlfriend

“Enaaaa~, may I praise our merciful saviour?” She swooned, moving to wrap her arms around the shorter’s waist, earning a hum of contentment from the other

“Yeah yeah, the big bad Ena just has to ruin every occasion right?” The girl huffed, softly placing a hand on top of Mizuki’s which sat around her midriff

“Ehhh? If it weren’t for you, Mafuyu would probably had sneaked the little thing in anyways-! But now at least you’ve explained why it’s important to treat it like a living being, if not then our dear Nurse may just let it roam around without a second thought~!” The taller stated, peppering a light kiss atop the elder’s head before gently resting her chin on it

It stayed silent for a brief moment, before a pale hand was brushing trough pink locks

“Mm…you don’t think she’ll get bored or forget about it do you?”

“Nonsense! It’s practically a mini Kanade, who could abandon that??”

“Right…” The shorter hummed, her hand unfortunately stopping its comfortable movement through the pinkette’s hair, which caused a small frown on the former’s lips

“Geez-! Lighten up! At least now you can take rea~lly cute photo’s of the little bun, hehhh…?” Mizuki inquired happily, before slightly bending down in order to pick the other up, twirling them both around in the doorway cheerfully, her nectar like laughter filling up the air

“Okay-okay s-stop-“ The brunette stumbled between breathily giggles, clinging on tightly to the pair of arms around her waist for support until they hit the feet of the bed’s frame, topping over onto it.

Both lovers lay beside one another, coming down from a high of laughter, not paying a passing thought about the cards which were now scattered across the pink enveloped bedroom.

“Say Enanan, doesn’t this make us a bunch of married lesbians with a girl pet now? Ya’know I’ve always dreamed of this” The animator fondly joked, placing a sincere hand on the other’s soft cheek, gently cupping it.

Looking through tired hooded eyes, the brunette passed the faintest condescending smirk, before closing her eyes

“Have fun on your shopping trip tomorrow… oh and none of us will be going, it’s your job after all, right? ”

 Mizuki then furrowed her eyes brows, defeatedly plopping her head down in the mattress with a groan, unfortunately she couldn’t make their strongest- most dire life saving bag holder purplenette girlfriend carry and push the cart… what a pity.

“Eugh…fine…”

Hence, such was the reason why Akiyama Mizuki was currently standing in front of the pet store within Shibuya’s mall, mentally preparing herself to go in and somehow not come out with about twelve new additions to their family.

Tightening their grip on her mini backpack strap, Mizuki went in the store, a mixture of cotton like smells and kibble filling the air which surprisingly wasn’t all that unpleasant.

Moving over to the small mammal’s isle, she took out a carefully folded note from her skirt pocket, which consisted of a list with all the things their composer and lyricist researched on that a bunny needed

Glancing down, it seems they started off with its most important needs, like food and a suitable habitat- so off to the housing section she goes!

After coming to the realization that a single person was unable to carry all the items, Mizuki had gotten a cart and began to fill it up with everything listed, and luckily enough because it wasn’t exactly her pet, Mafuyu had allowed the pinkette to use the Nurse’s freakishly loaded card- within reason of course.

The final few items were the hardest to get- or more pick out, as it was recommended to give your bun toys to entertain themselves as well as keep their teeth healthy, so naturally the most fashionable out of the four (well, Ena says otherwise) took it upon herself to choose the most adorable chew thingys and comb brush looking other thingy.

In the end, Mizuki decided to go with a few heart shaped balls that were made out of some scratchy material, and a pink and white grooming kit which of course had to be bedazzled all the way through.

Tossing them aside into the cart, the animator crossed her arms proudly, grinning at her very hard work which meant-

Now she was able to go look at all the other cute animals~!

Mizuki pushed the cart off to the side, before nearly running towards the live animal section, where an array of critters were kept there and every time she ever went into a pet store during her younger days, the first thing the pinkette would do is start tapping at all the glasses while giggling

Creatures ranged from other bunnies to birds, hamsters, and of course the best of all-

Cats!!

It was an understatement to say that she loved cats- in fact it was pretty common for her to relate herself to one.

Racing over to the display windows which contained different adorable breeds, all prancing about and stretching on the multiple posts and beds, she could barely hold in her giddy excitement.

Soon enough, Mizuki was ‘pspspsp’ing and ‘here kitty kitty~!’ing at the glass, each cat reacting differently, a few even coming up to put a curious paw on the window, to which Mizuki met with her hand. Smiling a kittenish grin.

It had been around five minutes of back and forward goose chases of following kittens around- until a certain scene caught her eyes-

There was a gated area near the kennels where a few cats laid about, a bunch of toys scattered around the floor as a couple seemed to be interacting with some. Pink eyes scanned along the fences, which had multiple adoption pictures along it.

The pink orbs narrowed, before widening in realization-

ohhh it was a meet and greet!

The pinkette took an eager step forward- before pausing, it was getting a bit late- nearly an hour from when she had left, her girlfriends were all probably waiting for her to come back home with the products for their newly adopted child which she should be prioritizing-

But the kitties-!!

……

They could wait

……

So now, apparently Akiyama Mizuki found herself sitting on the floor, knees pulled to her chest as only Hatsune Miku knows how many cats were sitting curled around her. Currently, the fashion designer was gently stroking an orange chubby tabby one- how cute!

And then a deep brown one leaped up in her lap- also cute!

And then a larger black one nuzzled into her side- her heart was exploding form a cuteness overload!!

Riding the high of kitty heaven- Mizuki was grinning ear to ear, a subtle flush of pink which matched her hair was ever growing on her cheeks.

Purr’s flooded her ears as she glanced around happily- until a sight tore down her cotton candy paw print clouds.

In the corner of one of the fences, sat a tall cat tree, one with many- many layers. Atop of it, what seemed to be a cream furred ragdoll cat stood perched, its back arched in agitation and upper muzzle pulled into a snarl. Confused, the pinkette looked down- to see two larger cats clawing at the base while simultaneously hissing, tails up in hostility directed at the smaller.

A weird feeling churned in Mizuki’s heart, although it was probably a simple ‘cat fight’ the same pained look in the cream coloured cat’s face seemed way to familiar, was this what Mafuyu was referring to?

Reluctantly standing up away from all the snuggly kitties, Mizuki walked towards that same cat tree, watching the commotion for a little while longer- until one of the larger cats which had a brindle pattern leapt up and began climbing. Causing the smaller cat to hiss, lifting its paws in defence.

The animators chest slightly burned- for all the time she was here, that particular cat never seemed to interact with the others all that much- so why were those two going after it?

Lost in her thoughts, the larger cat reached the bed underneath the top one, extending a claw out to scrape at the cat tree’s material.

The pinkette was about to intervene before a worker stepped out thankfully-

Shooing the two away with a displeased look- until his eyes landed on Mizuki’s unsteady frame.

“Uh- Hi? Excuse me M’am? Are you alright” A deep, wavering voice called out 

Soon enough a hand was suddenly waved in her face, causing the animator to snap out of her thoughts and reply, murmuring a small apology.

The man seemed slightly worried, insisting on asking how she was- to which he finally followed the girls gaze towards the earlier ragdoll. Letting out a small chuckle at the reaction.

The pinkette intensively listened as the kind worker explained the situation between the earlier conflict- turns out, that cream cat was a target of many pickings from others due to being a runt, which in her opinion seemed completely unfair-!

It’s not the like the poor cat had any say in how it was born

Perhaps even in kitty life there would still be bullies to matter what.

Mizuki thanked the worker for his time, before he went back to restocking the cat areas shelves. The fashion designer sighed, looking back at the cat tree- however there was no cat?

Confused, the pinkette glanced around. Most of the kittens were a darker colour, so the cream cat should’ve stood out-

That is until a pleasant yet surprising sound was heard from beneath her feet.

Glancing down- grey eyes which seemed way too adorably giant for the smaller cats head stared back up, mewling.

A small squeak escaped the pinkette’s lips, immediately crouching down to softly caress the animal, feeling its spine curve into her strokes.

The cat in return meowed happily, tilting its head up to soak up the affection, its big eyes blinking so stupidly cute-

Cute- cute- cute~!!

Mizuki gently slipped her slender hands underneath the kitties front legs, lifting it up like a baby before nuzzling her nose into its tummy, mellow purring stirring up in the cats throat.

Gosh- could life get any better?

The animator then began to pepper little kisses on its head to its ears, causing it to slightly recoil its neck back after each audible ‘mwah!’

After what felt like a hundred pecks, the feline placed a paw aganst the pinkette’s mouth, subduing the onslaught of kisses with a glare in its huge orbs. It didn’t look threatening much in the slightest-! How could anything- human or animal ever think to be so cruel to such a cutie?!

Beep Beep Beeeeep

……

Ding…!

An over dramatic groan left the designers mouth, her head leaning back in utter agony as she reached for her phone, placing the cat back down which simply stared back up in sadness-

Mizuki then swiped up on the screen, the mood instantly dropping as very irate messages were ringing, all coming from one certain person

Enanan 4:02pm

Where are you!?!

Everyone’s waiting you dumbass

Enanan 4:03pm

Hello???

The stupid bunny keeps wailing

Get home

Safely

Enanan 4:03pm

Now.

Uh oh

Yup, she was really in for it now- but there was no way in hell that it has been nearly two hours already?

Placing her phone back down, the animator slumped back.

The cream cat was now curled up on her lap- sleeping.

Sleeping.

Let me repeat that

Sleeping.

And any cat owners know, that waking up your sleeping cat is a one way ticket to the depths of hell, but that’s the thing.

This cat wasn’t Mizuki’s, nor could Mizuki have it.

But….

Glancing back down, grey eyes were wide awake, once again, staring back up with those eyes that had no thought train behind them- yet the feeling it sparked was so recognizable.

Not to steal Mafuyu’s words but, warmth would be the best way to describe it.

It wasn’t its physical warm body, but its behaviour- it was scarily all too real for a cat.

After all, they were quite similar weren’t they?

That former look of agitation,

skittishness,

how it cowered on something where it knew others couldn’t reach it.

And now- those happy purring orbs, full of joy as if a switch got flipped with a little affection.

…..

“I can’t take you home”

Grey eyes narrowed

“ Meow ”

…..

“Surely I can’t…”

A paw came up to swat at Mizuki’s hands

“ Merrrrow ”

…..

She glanced over at the fence one more time, an adoption paper reading ‘Chibi’ on it, along with a unnecessary photo of the worlds cutest kitty (a close second to herself)

“You’ll eat ‘Fuyu’s bunny won’t ya?”

“Meowww?”

……

A smile krept up onto the pinkette’s face, much so mirroring the cats own.

“Rabbits are a type of livestock anyways…yeah?”

“ Meowowow ….!”

……

And so, Mizuki left the pet store with much more than just the ‘necessities’, well according to a brunette of course.

Carrying a few loads of bags, as well as a carrier in her right aching hand, a faint meow was heard

“Shshshsh-! We can’t spoil the surprise!”

The pinkette could have sworn she heard an animalistic giggle come from the crate.

…….

“Yahoo~, I’m ba~ack” Mizuki cheered, parading into their shared house while practically dragging the shopping bags along, her arms growing tired long ago.

Marching into the living room, a warm sight awaited the pinkette.

Mafuyu was laying on the couches arm rest, with a brunette slumped against the opposite side

Eagerly plopping the items down near the tv stand- one carrier much more gentle than the others, the animator walked right over as she held a bag in her hands. Extending it out to Mafuyu for the other to take.

The ravenette was currently paying full attention to the little animal on her stomach, it seemed to be chewing on a grey hoodie string as the latter caressed its back in rhythmic patterns.

The designer opened her mouth to greet the other, before slowly closing it as the soft breathing of another became more apparent, realizing one of her lovers were fast asleep- she toned down her volume mercifully

“Ello ‘fuyu! Here ya go~” Mizuki whisper exclaimed, excitedly handing over the bag as Mafuyu gave a small nod of gratitude

“Thank you” the other replied, rummaging through the plastic with intrigued eyes as the taller sat down on her knees infront of the couch, reaching a hand over to pet the bunny, watching as it made small popcorn like noises

Pink eyes watched as purple pulled out a small carrot chew toy, hands hastily tearing off the packaging connected before holding it out to the critter.

Purple eyes furrowed- the bunny simply stared at it, as if the thing possessed no consciousness

The nurse tilted her hand slightly, moving the item closer to the animals mouth

“It’s not moving” she ravenette stated, earring a muffled laugh from the younger

“Well give her some time my dear-! After all it’s only been like what- a day maybe?”

“Hm…”

Mizuki had to hold in another snicker at the adorable confused look on her girlfriends face, and stupidly same level of confusion on the bunny’s

Taking pity eventually, the pinkette gently took the toy from Mafuyu’s hands, instead, sending the other a cheeky grin

“My dear, you gotta add some flavour into it~! Watch and learn” She teased, before moving the toy closer again, but instead talking in a baby voice while pestering it- a tone their current sleeping princess would use when one of them were not feeling so good.

Cough cough-

“Aww who’s a little cutie~ com’on don’t you want a treat~?” She sang, giggling as an unimpressed gaze feel on her

“Your scaring her” A blank voice stated, scooping up the tiny mammal to shield it from the other girl’s very deadly verbal attacks, holding it close to her chest before placing a small kiss on the white fur.

Mizuki slapped a hand over her mouth, stifling back her laughter attack as the lyricist resembled a pouting puppy- she really was becoming better at acting all cute when irritated~!

Placing the toy down on the couch, before allowing her arms to rest on it as she buried her chin into them to pass the ravenette a half smirk

“Sooo~ what’d ya name it?” She asked, genuinely curious to what the dense yet so very loveable Mafuyu could’ve come up with

“….”

“…?”

“She doesn’t have a name yet” Purple eyes drifted down, the same guilty look as before being subtly apparent in them as she stared at the bunny, almost apologetically.

Momentarily, pink eyes widened, blinking in hesitation

“Ah I see, did Kanade give any suggestions?”

“She said a name for something I care for would come naturally and to take my time, although none of the ones I saw online felt right” A quiet voice stated, sending a pang of what seemed to be sadness and excitement through the pinkette

“Oh oh-! I can help then-! How about-“

“Mrrrrow…?”

Mizuki mentally strangled herself, eyes snapping towards the sudden sound while simultaneously trying to keep a nonchalant demeanour on to not provoke any suspicion-

Unlike Mafuyu, she just randomly brought home a high maintenance animal- one that specifically preyed on smaller ones, such as the pet they already had which wasn’t planned for.

Safe to say maybe, just maybe

The animator should’ve second guessed herself.

The designer immediately rushed over to the small carrier- ignoring the confused look their lover had on her face as she hastily crouched down to peer into the small metal window it had

And what the pink gaze saw caused her heat to stop beating for a good minute

There…

There was no cat.

…..

Almost in slow motion, Mizuki turned around, her bubbly grin gone and instead was transferred to the menace happily prancing towards its soon to be meal which laid ignorantly on the couch.

Cream coloured paws sent echoing thumps throughout the pinkette’s head, gaze shaking as the small animal approached-

Altough this was most certainly not a movie or piece of fiction and she was most definitely alive, the girl felt like she was stuck in a climax scene, how weird.

Mizuki stood there frozen as she watched as the feline got into a crouched position, ready to end both a life and the poor youngest’s respect and dignity-

Mafuyu narrowed her eyes in surprise and expectancy, confusingly calm for the situation at hand.

Ena was of course still sleeping somehow?

And Kanade was-

….!!

Like a splash of ice cold water to the head, the pinkette snapped back out of her internal cinematic experience, to stare in awe at her their saviour

A small girl stood crouched down beside the cat, face twisted in slight pain and pitiful shock which looked adorable coming from her-

Long pale silvery-blue hair cascaded along the floor, and a good clump of it was within a very particular creature’s claws

….

The girl was wresting her hair out of the kitten.

“M-Mizuki-!? Eugh…please stop…” The bluette pleaded to the little pest clawing at the strands as if they were a toy, purring happily as it leapt up and down to grab onto more

The fashionista felt so so so bad- but couldn’t help a small amused grin slide upon her lips at the sight, it wasn’t that she enjoyed her shortest lover in pain- or getting caught bringing home a cat although no one has exactly mentioned that..

It was just their beloved was so weirdly adorable doing anything~!!

Springing into action, the tallest rushed over forcing down a laugh to gently pry the kittens vicious tiny claws off her shortest girlfriend, pulling the small animal into her arms and holding the feline from under it’s arms as it mewled

“Aha~ sorry love…I don’t know how it got out” She quickly apologized, sympathetically combing through the now tangled locks on long hair, earning a forgiving yet grimacing look from the latter

“It’s okay, but uh- why is there a cat-?”

“A cat! Where?!”

“Er- the one that just tried to attack me?”

“Oh wow rea~lly?”

“Yes…”

“:)”

“:(“

Dropping her head low, Mizuki sighed, the cat continuing to purr as if it was oblivious to the situation which they just caused.

“I…I’m sorry-“ The words died on the girls tounge- because really? What could she say? ‘Oh I felt attached’? ‘It looked really cute?’

Mizuki knew that she would most definitely get in trouble now, I mean, they already had a pet which no one was prepared for, then she took nearly two and a half hours to simply get what it needed to survive, and now she brought home a whole new living thing that was just tried to eat their girlfriend- just how much could one single girl possibly mess up?

The animator opened her mouth even though it was already known to herself that nothing would come out, there really wasn’t any explanation, and perhaps for the better she’d just be condemned to return the cat.

The cat which was just so strikingly cute

The cat which just clicked with her

The cat which somehow- in some very ominous way, seemed to resemble herself-

Maybe Mafuyu was just rubbing off on her

The pinkette was about to spew out apologies, then offer to return it and everything would go back to normal.

That is until a different voice spoke up, intruding Kanade’s concerned look

“It looks a lot like you, for some reason”

Two heads turned in the ravenette’s direction, a surprised expression on cotton candy coloured gazes

Mafuyu blinked, before absentmindedly going back to softly caressing her own pet which seemed like it could care a lot less of whatever was going on right now

“I mean, I don’t know why…but it kind of reminds me of you”

The designer looked between the two girls, absolutely dumbfounded until a smile made its way onto her face, she’d always joke about being a cat- but maybes it’s actually coming in handy!

“I think I sort of understand” A softer voice peeped up, extending a frail hand out to the small animal in Mizuki’s arms, to which the cat bubbly tilted its head up to the touch while smiling in its own kittenish way

Pink orbs suddenly widened with an all to recognizable look- before narrowing as her eyes drifted towards their one girlfriend who has been absent this entire chaotic situation, after all, right now would be her best chance at getting her two more “negotiable” lovers on her side- then sneak attack the brunette with a “seems like the court rules in my favour~!”

Feigning a cute smile to cover her very evil grin, Mizuki raised the cat up onto the air, to which it meowed as if this was the Lion King, seeming proud as ever

“Would my dearest’s be willing to allow yours truly to have a little friend~?! We can train her to become besties with Mafuyu’s bunny like in those YouTube videos-!”

Mafuyu was the first one to react, rolling her eyes at the spectacle as she moved from her laying position to instead sit up with her critter snugly on her lap, slightly tilting her head

“I don’t see why not, if I’m allowed to keep one it’s only fair as long as she doesn’t try attacking anyone, Kanade?”

Mizuki then silently cheered, lowering the animal back to the ground, before putting on her best pout as she stared right into ocean blue orbs

“Uh-“

“Pwetty pweaseee~?”

….

An amused sigh was heard, before the bluette passed the pinkette her signature soft smile

“It’s alright with me too” The shortest replied with a small laugh as the cream coloured cat rubbed up aganst her leg, tail puffing up

“Wohoo~! Thankyouthankyouthank you guys-! I love you all so m-“

“And what are you three doing-?!” A sudden voice boomed in, causing the room to grow tense and silent

Very, very silent, to the point where it was loud.

The pinkette could practically feel the hostility radiating off of the artist, quite literally causing her to jump out of her skin as she almost immediately turned towards Ena, quickly putting her hands up in an attempt to dismiss the anger being hurled towards her

“O-oh Ena- finally awake huh? Did our sleeping beauty have a-“

“ Mizuki”

A cold slithering feeling ran through the animators spine, sure, she utterly annoyed the brunette’s head off half the time but- mostly it was harmless banter, this was a whole something else.

Glancing slightly to the side, pink eyes locked with purple, two different shades of blue, and grey ones, and yet everyone had the same reaction (some more visible than others)

Mizuki gulped, maybe saying the preplanned words of something along the lines of ‘haha your outvoted~!’ Will put her in deaths row.

_______________________________________

Ena narrowed her eyes as she leaned aganst the kitchens counter, impatiently tapping her finger as her biggest current nuisance- sat across from her, irritation dripping off the brown’s stare

Oh, she was so done

The brunette mentally scoffed, not only did a certain pinkette bring another pet home- but a cat-, especially without any prior permission once again. Surely it would tear up all the furniture, meow for food at 1am, and shed its fur everywhere- to which would make her life a living hell.

She only agreed to Mafuyu’s bunny because it was small, practical, and didn’t have the ability to be a mini demon, definitely not because her three girlfriends looked like they’d die if she didn’t agree of course-

Continuing to glare daggers into the other girl, and especially that damned cat, which gave her the most innocent yet mischievous look back, only further igniting a harsher scowl

“So, care to explain?” She started, voice carrying an irritated yet stern tone, waiting for the other to reply whom only had been staring at the wall behind her like it was the most interesting thing

“Ah- uhm yes-! You see….”

“…..”

“Okay- I don’t have a sob story like Mafuyu, but it was getting- uh…bullied ya’know-?” The pinkette remarked, a half smile on her stupidly shame ridden face as she attempted to play it off

“Bullied? How the hell- okay whatever, short answer is- your not keeping it” The artist snapped back, her eyebrows furrowing in irritation, no way would she allow all of their furniture to become covered in cat hair- or put up with a small clawed beast running around. And not to mention, she probably couldn’t handle the idea of seeing their ravenette’s pet be ripped to peices, so it was decided

“What-! But she won’t do no harm! Just look at her itty bwitty face~” Mizuki replied, putting on a fake pouting voice as she moved the kitten closer to Ena, to which the latter scoffed

“Mizuki- no, the only animal we will be keeping is that bunny, and that’s it”

“But she’s so adorbs-! I promise she won’t be let near Mafuyu’s pet- or tear up anything! We can get her claws trimmed-“

“We’re not keeping her-!”

“Come on! I swear- you won’t even have time to see her! I’ll keep her in my room and-“

“I said no-“

“Aw, just look-“

“Mizuki-!” Ena shouted angrily- slamming her hands onto the counter in a fit of rage, opening to her to retort back another comment until the scene infront of the girl caused her to pause-

Mizuki looked visibly shaken- shallow breaths being sucked in through her teeth as she held onto the animal a bit too tight for comfort, the pink orbs were slightly glossy as eyelashes fluttered to blink away any droplets, which caused the brunette to be taken aback in the shift of her demeanour

Ena immediately bit down on her tounge, brown eyes widening in realization as her own hand slightly trembled in a poor try to steady any emotions which were currently bubbling up-

Situations which involved yelling in between them usually ended up horribly, as both were stubborn on opinions and sometimes would be uncaring with words

And Ena knew that look, it was always the same dissociative stare that the designer had when simply overwhelmed and frightened

The brown gaze moved down to the small feline in the others arms, it’s own grey eyes were mimicking the formers pinks- which again, felt way to distinguishable in feelings- distress, its spine was slightly arched into the pale hands, fur standing up and tail pointed.

She was no animal expert, but that must’ve meant it was scared

Ena hurriedly glanced back up at Mizuki, an apology forming in her mouth as her own eyes began to burn with water, however she had no right to cry right now

“Mizuki- i-I didn’t mean it like that-“

Before she could finish, the pinkette slowly pulled the kitten closer to her, until it was held close to the others chest-

The shorter was about to continue until a soft step was heard-

And then another

And another-

Mizuki was slowly and subtly backing up, causing Ena’s nerves and instinct to go haywire, a familiar scene playing through her head as she tried to speak- to say anything of use

“Wait hold on-“

Like an agitated fawn, pink eyes finally met brown ones back- trembling as faint pools of water started forming, her legs shaking-

“Mizuki don’t- please” The artist forced out, extending a hand towards the other until something pierced the unsettling quietness

“Huh… Ena?” A small figure stood in the doorway of the kitchen with a taller frame behind it

Kanade blinked in momentary confusion, looking between the two girls before a small ‘oh’ could be heard from behind

Mafuyu took a few steps forward, a solemn look in her eyes as she carefully approached the taller, leaving the blunette standing there conflicted at the door

“Let’s talk about this later, it’s not good to argue so pointlessly-“

“We can’t have another pet- I don’t know how this started but none of us have time, space, or experience-!”

“Ena- why don’t we give it a chance-“

Voices mixed together in a loud muddle, as the tallest only grew more frightened, clutching onto the small animal who was equally as scared in her arms like a lifeline before-

Brown, blue and purple gazes watched as pink dashed across the room, footsteps messily placed and rushed-

The composer and lyricist stood in shock before a loud voice snapped everyone out of their internal panic

“Mizuki-! Stop- it’s dark out please-!” The brunette shouted in fright, instantly running to the door- forcing herself to ignore the scared looks of the two other girls as she passed them

However, the pinkette was always a good runner, for better or worse Ena had learned that in an unfortunate way, but the latter also knew that Ena was much more stubborn and relentless than she’ll ever be.

So without a second passing, the artist slid on some random and somewhat too small black slip on’s before dashing out, part of her felt bad for simply ditching the other two- but knowing the animator, it’d be best to act quick and apologize later once the situation was settled.

…..

Okay she probably should have waited for the other two

Currently, the girl was now walking at a brisk pace after running for what felt like decades (not even five minutes), she was partially heaving, and the cold night air did not help at all to settle her raging heartbeat

Not only did the dark streets give an unsettling vibe, but it was also quite hard to see with only dim lamps lighting up the paths ahead

The brunette only grew more anxious, sure she wasn’t very far from her house, but she had no clue how far or even where Mizuki ran off to- and even how her other girlfriends were doing

Nausea started bubbling in her throat- not in a ‘throw up’ way, but one of anxiety and nervousness, she felt a wave of sickness build up.

The artist slowed down, now coming to a slower walk as the girl pulled out her phone to contact someone-

Uh oh

All that her hand met was empty fleece of soft cloth-

She’d forgotten her phone in admits of panic, meaning contacting anyone was out of the question

And as if a switch flicked, Ena’s breathing picked up as she started taking more unstable steps, the only thoughts clashing with her mind was simply wanting to fix the situation which she had regrettably caused

The brunette didn’t know it would reach this point, after all, they couldn’t have a prey and predator in the same house? Plus, they all barely had time for one another, keeping a pet like a cat would simply just not work out with everyone’s busy schedule, so the point she was trying to make was still justified.

right?

….

Okay maybe she did take it too far-

“Dammit…” Ena mentally scolded herself, nails absentmindedly digging into her opposite arm as she chewed on her bottom lip, pupils slightly trembling

Doubt filled up her mind as she came to an abrupt stop infront of a wooden sign, one which signalled the start of a park trail which the girl had visited many times before when she was younger, normally with a friend or two- and especially most commonly with Mizuki-

Right, Mizuki.

The artist sucked in a breath as she peered down the woodland path, treetops casting an eerie sight as the overlooking moon peeked out from between the shades of branches- looking like something straight out of a horror movie

The faint rustle of some critters- or monsters within its forage was heard here and there, causing the skin on Ena’s neck to shiver

Knowing the pinkette for as long as she did, the girl would have most likely hid someone for solitude which made this familiar trail a good enough guess to her location-

But it sure as hell would be the last place Ena would hide.

Honey brown eyes scanned the area- she wasn’t afraid of the dark obviously! That was for little kids who had unlimited internet access and played Bloody Mary of course- she was a full grown adult now for crying out loud!

However, something about how the tall trees caved in under the impression of the dark navy sky behind it just gave her an icky feeling- if she did find Mizuki in here than it would be a miracle to how the other girl found the courage to go in, after the times where the taller would cling to her during a jumpscare scene in a film they watching during movie nights.

With a quiet sigh as to not alert any possible monsters of her whereabouts- the girl took a few shaky steps in before a faint little orb of light came into sight, so the trail did have lighting! Well that just made it-

Sniff sniff…

Freezing in place and instantly picking up a rock- Ena’s eyes blew wide as she forgot to breathe, teeth clattering against eachother

“Who the hell is there-!!? Stay back-! I’ll- uh- I’ll kill you-!” Her shaky voice quivered in a much less threatening tome than implied- fine- fine she was still scared of the dark-!

The artist snapped her gaze onto a large hedge, staring it down with her arm raised, until another rustle of movement was heard-

“EEEEEEEEEEEK-!!!” And then a rock went hurling at it

Squeak-!!

Thump…

Right as she turned around to run the opposite way- a tiny little sound was heard, causing the brunette to look behind and let out a small gasp of surprise and confusion

Whatever deity was up there must’ve been trolling her life right now- no tall skinny humanoid figure would make that noise-! At least prior to watching those videos which Mizuki forced in her face

Gruff gruff… hiss

Curiosity killed the cat? More like curiosity will be the end of Ena’s sense of logic, as the girl slowly- slowly made her way towards the bush, grabbing a long stick to prod open the leafs just a bit-

Black shiny eyes stared back, unblinking

A little round body with short legs stood there stubbornly, slightly raising its array of thin spikes along its neck and back-

Ena recognized that tiny creature, a hedgehog

She remembered scrolling through some posts about a petting zoo, one particular animal catching her eye, the way it puffed up when defensive, and curled into a ball for protection was just so cute!

Nonono- find Mizuki-

that’s what she ran out in the middle of the night for-

Sighing, the brunette put down the stick before a few pink strings cut through her vision like a blaring light-

On the tiny animals spiked back, a half torn ribbon was tangled along it, becoming knotted within the bush and effectively rendering the creature helpless

Crouching down, Ena used her arm to keep the bush parted, passing a wary glance towards the mammal which was currently hissing in what sounded like insults

“Hey- where’d you get that-?” She question to really no one, cocking her head to the side, contemplating on trying to negotiate with an agitated animal or leaving to continue her search

“ Hisssss…gruff ”

It replied, of course it did

“Ah- listen here you-! Animals don’t just happen to come accessorized so if you dare poke me when I’m trying to help you then I’ll just leave- got it?” She hissed back, falling to a new low of threatening a hedgehog who was the same size of her hand

“Squeak squeak!” Black eyes glared

Brown eyes glared back with equal venom- until another rustle of wind swept by, giving a unneeded reminder of the brunette’s current situation

The girl let out a defeated huff, before very carefully maneuvering her hands to the branch said ribbon was tied on, being mindful of the spines which were alarmingly close to her fingers

At long last, the ribbon came lose from around the branch, and now was only tangled within the hedgehog’s quills- which Ena was most definitely not touching

“There, happy? Now shoo I’m busy” The artist stated sternly, scolding an animal like a child- in that moment the brunette wondered how her lovers put up with her constant attitude

Shrugging the thought off, since more important matters were currently happening, the girl was finally going to actually start searching the trail for her lost girlfriend, that is until the annoying presence spoke up yet again

“Gruff! Squeak!”

“What the hell do you want now-?! Ah-“

While absorbed within her thoughts, the hedgehog had stumbled out the bush and found itself head butting the irritated brunette’s leg, passing the former its own somewhat angry face

“Eh-?” Huffing in annoyance, the artist was about to shoo it away again, until the animal took a few steps back on its annoyingly cute stubby legs, before looking up with its pitiful eyes

Ena scowled, something in those little orbs seemed so fiery despite its predicament, the tiny creatures mouth constantly giving out cires while having a very obvious lacy pink ribbon tied along it, practically making a joke out of itself

If Ena was ever asked, she’d say her sprit animal was this specific hedgehog, hell- they even had the same ‘don’t fuck with me’ resting face (not that she would admit it aloud)

With a small laugh, brown orbs glanced behind her, ignoring the blatantly creepy atmosphere in the dead of night, a few red fallen fruits caught her eye

‘Crabapple’s’ she recalls, a very common fruit which was around this park’s trail in the summers, reaching out her hand, she picked one of the better looking apple’s up by its faded stem, offering it to the critter

“Pspsps-“ She attempted, mocking her pinkette’s voice from watching the other interact with wild birds along the street

“want one?” She cooed, holding back another snicker at how stupid this all was, it was not hard to see that the creature was already angered so-

“Sniff sniff…”

The hedgehog scurried closer, passing one last wary glance before putting two of its tiny paws onto Ena’s knee, tilting its head and snout up to grab the apple before gnawing on it, causing the girl to giggle

“Ah- your so adorable-!” The artist exclaimed, unknowingly extending a hand to stroke it as if it was a hamster-

That is until her hand caressed the spikes along its back-

And yet

Surprisingly, they felt… really soft

Petting the animal downwards from its neck, the quills didn’t poke to Ena’s confusion- however it felt interestingly soothing

Soon enough, the hedgehog began to make a sound somewhat akin to a purr as it nipped the apple, not minding the sudden touch

After what seemed to be the most calm few seconds since the whole ‘pet’ thing came up, the artist knew she still had a job to do- so grudgingly, she gently stood up with a soft smile as she shuffled the animal off her

Standing up, the brunette passed a glance at the poor critter on the ground who matched her gaze with a somewhat pout, after waving bye like some animal whisper, she began to walk down the trail- who knows how far Mizuki has gotten now-!

Even more determined to find her lover and make things right after a first hand experience at consulting with some random being they found, she caught a glimpse of a small rest bench up ahead- which marked the halfway point of the park’s trail

Moving to speed walk, Ena could subtly hear a faint jingle up ahead- a collar-?! Or perhaps a keychain-? She couldn’t tell, but that’d mean that something someone was here!

Just as she was about to start running- pitter patters made its grand entrance in the brunette’s hearing and-

“Squeak squeak squeaaaak-!”

Is this why you don’t feed wild animals?

Turning around with a frown, sure enough the same bedazzled hedgehog came scurrying after, little legs quickly working to carry the round body it was attached to, as well as a few more squeaks for good measure

“Geh- you again? Go away-!” She huffed, making a shooing motion with her hands

“Go! Shoo! I said leave- oh my gosh”

“Huff huff…” The critter ran into the girls foot, before backing up and staring at her with a stubborn gaze

Glaring back, the artist opened her mouth to yell- until the animal ran ahead, stopping every few steps to look back, squeak, and then run some more

Absolutely done with this whole situation, Ena stared wide eyed at it, before realizing that she was getting left behind

“Hey hey- wait up your surpassingly fast y’know?!” She scoffed before running to follow this confusing animal

Right now it was her best bet, at least something could protect the poor girl if a wolf jumped out of these dark trees…

….

Ena had probably been walking for awhile now, beginning to question why she was following a hedgehog in the first place- it was dead at night, in a creepy trail, trying to find her girlfriend which she scared off and simultaneously left her other two at home without a word

And to add- it was really starting to get much colder-!

“So uh- where are we…going?”

“ Hiss !”

“Okay okay geez-!”

Communicating with a mammal seemed to be more indifferent than her other lovers showed it to be, Mafuyu’s bunny who’s yet to be named looked so content with being swaddled around and simply just sat there as their ravenette waved a carrot with a hopeful look in the once dull violet eyes

Mizuki’s…. Somewhat pet which is also yet to have a name and to officially join the Yoisakiasahinashinonomeakiyama family was playful and friendly, purring to affection and even cowering to its “owners” arms when frightened

Kanade- well poor Kanade didn’t have an animal companion nor could probably care for one

As for Ena and this creature who is most definitely not her pet or companion- simply just acted like a brat! Even after saving it, it still continues to hiss and show attitude to the brunette- and now the thing was leading her on some random path which diverged from the one she’d normally take-

….

Alright she couldn’t take this anymore

Her anxiety had long overflowed and this thing was just adding to her stress

Hastily moving in front to scoop the animal up and bringing it close to her face which had a death stare on it, she pointing an accusing finger

“I’m going to put you beside that red looking bush over there- and you’re NOT going to follow me- okay!?”

“Hiss…. hiss… grrwww ”

Opening her mouth to spill out insults at the tiny thing- a sound which was for once not the creature in her palms was heard

“Mrrrrow….?”

Ena paled, looking down to see the presence of a very familiar cream coloured small cat

Almost screaming, she nearly threw the animal which she held, instantly dividing all her attention towards said feline

“A-ah you-! Uh cat- I’m sorry! I’m sorry for shouting okay-? J-just- gosh! Where’s Mizuki-!” The artist pleaded, to which the cat stared up with flat ears, slightly moving back at the sudden noise

“Oh- sorry-! Just where is she-“

“Ena-!?”

A sudden weight was thrown onto the shorter girl from the side, nearly knocking her off balance before she caught her footing as pink locks filled her vision, flooding her fast pacing heart with the same warmth the latter always brought her

Instinctively moving her own arms to wrap around the other person, who was now attacking her with apologies, Ena felt a tear slip silently before pulling away to meet the others gaze

Pink eyes were filled with pools of water which were spilling out- pink and black liner visibly blurring from the constant blinking, her soft hair was messily flowing along with the nights drafts and the former’s usual ribbon holding their curls in a side ponytail was now no where to be seen

Cries ripped through the other in between sobs as brown eyes lit up in worry

“Ena- E-Ena I didn’t mean to upset you-! I swear- it’s was just that Chibi seemed so-…so-! It’s hard to explain but- please don’t be mad- I’ll return her I promise-“

A hand gently covered the other’s mouth, warm brown hue’s gazing at the other lovingly and patiently- as must as she could muster

“Mizuki- shh, I’m not mad- promise it’s just-“ She paused, glancing down at the cat who was rubbing aganst the others leg, sending the brunette a kittenish smile

“I….i didn’t want your cat to become neglected- or eat Mafuyu’s poor pet. But-! I’ve realized that yelling like that wouldn’t solve or get my point though- I..I’m sorry..” Ena said calmly, frowning in worry and she soothingly combed her other hand trough Mizuki’s tangled hair

She then felt the grip on her long sleeved shirt tighten as the other sobbed, only causing the latter to feel more regretful for her brash actions

“Listen, I understand why you wanted to keep- uh Chibi? You felt a connection didn’t you? I’m sure she felt the same too, after all they’re quite stubborn aren’t they-?” She softly said, waiting patiently for the other’s response

“H-huh? I-I mean, in the pet store she kind of reminded me of myself…? Somehow…? Eugh-…I don’t know how to put it but I really should have at least called you before just randomly bringing her home…im sorry-“

“Hah-!? I said stop apologizing- do you know how cold it is out here-? And how creepy this whole forest is a night? You could have at least slowed down on the running a bit geez-“ Ena snapped back- in a softer tone of course, as she gently pinched the taller’s cheek in her own way of shutting her up

“Eh- owwwiee-! But it’s not my fault Enanan idnt all that athletic ~ OW-!”

Suddenly a sharp yet muted pain poked Mizuki- to which the shorter stared down and immediately gasped in realization

“Oh my gosh- I dropped her-!”

Moving her hands off the pinkette to instead scoop up the critter, the former playfully pouted at the loss of touch

“Hey- weren’t you just begging for my forgiveness my dear-is that a hedgehog-?!”

Ena was apologetically giving headpats to the indeed hedgehog, before glancing back at Mizuki with a slightly guilty expression

“Uh-  so I kind of found her when I was searching for you…? S-so I understand what you mean now-!…”

Pink eyes stared at her, brown eyes watched in hesitation as a cream coloured cat climbed up the pinkette’s frame to perch upon her shoulder-

Soon enough, both cats bared a malicious grin

And vice versa, both hedgehogs passed back a deep knowing scowl

“So~, a pet for a pet?” The other asked slyly, her gaze unwavering as she held out a hand like a formal deal

Ena glared back, passing a side eye to her hedgehog, then back to the two plotting faces

Sighing in an over exaggerated fashion, the brunette took her hand and shook it, carefully eyeing the girl like a prank was about to happen

“Fine- sure, but keep that rat away from my things, it’s looking at me weird…”

“Huff huff-!”

Her hedgehog snuffed in agreement, giving the cat a death glare as the designer snickered, her pet following suit

‘Oh dear lord there’s two of them’ Ena mentally grimaced

_______________________________

Within the 25-ji household, quiet panic was boiling as the shortest out of the four was hastily dialling both of her runaway lovers contact, to which she was met with a voice note    

With the phone still pressed to the side of her head, she turned around on the kitchens chair to the nurse who was just as equally- if not more anxious on what happend

Prior to the main argument, the two were simply waiting patiently on the couch in their living room after being instructed to by their artist, who seemed to be furious with the addition of a new pet without her knowledge or opinion.

Unfortunately, it showed that the brunette underestimated her own tone, as even from a different room both could hear the constant, worrying yelling going on

As of now, an unsettling silence loomed over the room, the only sounds coming from Kanade’s phone and occasional signs of impatient irritation from Mafuyu,

The ravenette attempted to run after Ena, only to be interrupted by a bluenette who pleaded for her to stay, to not leave her alone, and who could reject such pleas, especially from their composer?

So here they both sat, waiting helplessly for the two to return back home

It ached Kanade’s heart to simply stay quiet, while the taller was internally trembling as the only thing keeping her grounded was the soft purr’s of Yuki- the name which Mafuyu finally decided on

However, at about the fourteenth try- the line suddenly went to speaker and the composer nearly leapt out of her seat, catching the others attention

“Mafuyu they picked up- quick-!”

In the blink of an eye, a taller presence loomed right beside her, staring at the phone expectantly

“Hello?”

“Kana? ‘Fuyu-? We’re h-“ the sound of a few half hearted scolds, then breathing filled the line before a rhythmic knock echoed through their front door, causing blue and violet eyes to exchange concerned and confused glances

“Ahem- trick or treat~!”

Was the last thing the duo heard from the phone before the shorter stood up- almost tripping in the process and sprinting (walking in a brisk pace) towards the door and throwing it open in a frenzy

What met her was- thankfully her missing lovers! However Kanade didn’t miss the slight puffiness around each of their eyes as they apologetically smiled at her

In and instant, she pulled them both inside, before throwing herself onto them as she clawed at Mizuki’s shirt

“W-where have you been- where the hell have you two been-!?” She cried through frustration and worry, creating a dark patch on the taller’s muted pink shirt as angry tears spilled

Pale arms wrapped around her waist in shame, the latter refusing to meet her gaze as she instead glanced off to the side, causing the bluenette to burn with confusion

“Do- do you have any idea how scary that was-? Me a-and Mafuyu- you just left-!“ She sobbed, pushing away to try and meet her gaze, just for brown ones to place a soft hand atop her head

“Darling, we’re sorry- it wasn’t meant to come off like that… it’s just- my yelling didn’t help and Mizuki had every right to not be in that situation” The brunette calmly explained, placing a soft kiss on the shorter’s cheek in an apology

Kanade hummed, not explicitly forgiving them as Mafuyu would also have to be here, but she wasn’t outright mad at the two

Ocean eyes then turned towards pink, expectancy in them as Ena softly nudged the former to go on

“O-oh ah- yeah, I was just panicked and got scared- but that’s not an excuse for me to be worrying you all especially this late at night, and after I started it-“ She then paused, a soft smile forming on her lips before she followed suit and left a gentle peck on the composers other cheek

The bluette stared at both of the guilty girls for a good few seconds, before sighing and softly shaking her head, as a mirroring smile came up on her face

“It’s alright.. just at least answer or text next time” she softly admonished, before enveloping the two in another tight embrace to which it was quickly reciprocated

“Welcome home… but your going to have to apologize to Mafuyu too, she’s much more angrier than I am” Kanade added, quickly pulling away to not meet the surprised gazes from her girlfriends

It was quiet for a few heartbeats, all of them relishing in the momentary warmth of each others tender presence within the dimly lit hallway

Before of course, a timid yet cold voice spoke up

“If Kanade forgives you, then I suppose I’m okay as well” The blunt sound suddenly peeped up and low and behold, the girl in question stood in the  far end of the hallway, her white bunny trailing behind before stopping and standing on its hind legs, ears perking up

The nurse however, payed it no mind as she anxious pulled all three into a hug, earning a small insult from the brunette as she was squished, which a pinkette simply laughed in response

After much needed apologizes and forgiveness, the four were settled in their shared bedroom- technically it was Kanade’s but she didn’t mind hosting the occasional sleepovers even though everyone already had a room

However as of now, Mafuyu and herself were seated on her bed, while the other two went out of the room as a certain ‘surprise’ was promised to them after causing such distress for the two

Kanade was idly swinging her feet gently off the bed, before a cold hand that carried so much warmth laced with her own, causing her to glance at the owner

“Hi ‘fuyu”

“Hi Kanade”

The ravenette side eyed the door, before looking back and slightly tilting her head

“Is it just me, or did you see fur on Ena’s top…?” The girl asked, eyes slightly narrowing as if she was attempting to recall a memory

The bluenette then paused- since the two came home after some wild goose chase conveniently in the dead of night , nether had discussed on what was happening with what started the whole situation

“Come to think of it, I did” She replied

Kanade didn’t think their artist had the heart to genuinely refuse their designer in a serious matter, however after they returned there was no animals in sight

“You don’t think she really got rid of it do you…? Ena would at least wait till morning to return the cat as opposed to putting it in the wild… right?”

Mafuyu simply nodded in response, although there was conflicting emotions flowing through her purple eyes, in someway it felt almost unfair to them- however then again the situation just simmered down so bringing up the question so soon could potentially start another argument-

Snuffle snuffle

“Hello~? Earth to girlfriends?” A voice cooed, as a cream paw was waved in front of both the daydreaming girls faces, instantly snapping their attention towards the unexpected guests

In front of the two stood of course- Mizuki and Ena, however each was holding a surprising small critter

“Tadaa~! Meet the new official family members! The cu~test first of course, Chibi” The pinkette cheered in an announcer like fashion as she did a twirl whilst holding up said cat, whom happily meowed along in sync as her fluffy tail lashed around

“Anddd the grumpy- geh-!”

“Ahem, the actual cutest-“ The artist emphasized, passing a playful side eye to other just for spite

“Cheesecake!” Said the brunette, presenting a hedgehog in the same manner, however said animal was much less enthusiastic about being held up as its tiny paws flailed in the air

Kanade instantly lit up, gasping in fond surprise as she softly clapped to which Mafuyu followed

“I knew you’d come around eventually Ena! Oh they’re both so adorable, what do you think Mafuyu?” The composer eagerly exclaimed, smiling as she turned to the girl beside her

“It’s fine with me- although a hedgehog is certainly new,” She replied in a flat tone, however the faintest of smiles pulled up upon the ravenette’s lips

Quiet thumps made their way into the room, a snow white bunny hopping up to the lyricists foot, to which the girl lifted said bunny onto the bed in between herself and the bluenette, its snout nuzzling her thigh

The girl softly placed a hand atop the little creature, the gesturing seeming so innocent at a glance-

“And I would have to disagree with you both, Yuki’s the cutest” Mafuyu stated in a matter of fact tone, not entertaining the surprised and fake offended gazes of the two other pet owners

Kanade laughed as she watched the three start a meaningless fight over who had the most adorable critter, seeing as it escalated to her girlfriends beginning to throw pillows at one another, as well as fruitless insults and dramatic critiques coming out from a brunettes mouth as she failed to deflect a thrown projectile

The composer shifted closer to the corner of the bed, avoiding any crossfire while being able to savouring the sweet, tender moment in her own mind, glancing at the three pets who were also eagerly watching the pillow fight take place from their own safety on the floor

Azure eyes fondly observed how Chibi kept on brushing their paws along Cheesecake’s spikes curiously, electing a squeak from the former and then an unimpressed thump from Yuki.

Kanade smiled to herself, lost in thought even after a pillow grazed her leg which was followed up by apologizes from a pinknette, the girl drifted off in her own daze

At least she tried to, that is until large violet eyes were mere inches away from her own, causing the shorter to jump in the spot as she nearly fell back against the headboard, only to be so heroically caught by her knight in stinging armour like some cheesy fantasy movie they’ve all grown to love watching with one another late at night

“You seemed sad” A mellow voice remarked, purple hues filling with that same conflicted worry as before to the shorter’s distain

The composer quickly stabilized herself, before cupping the taller’s face gently as her thumb ran along the others cheek bone

"I'm alright dear, just thinking" She softly hummed

"'bout what?" the nurse questioned, ever so clueless to rhetorical statements which just happened to add more charm onto the others normally straightforward attitude

kanade let out a gentle laugh, before tucking in a stand of stray hair behind Mafuyu's ear

The ravenette always put down her hair before going to sleep, saying that keeping it tied for a long time will cause headaches, so of course, this influenced their animator to also do the same with the excuse of the other being more or less an expert on the human body- to which the nurse immediately shut the idea of perfection down, and unfortunately for Kanade and Ena, that meant they’d have to deal with two long haired goddess during night

Completely forgetting about the previous question, the bluenette gazed at her girlfriend who was so close to her as of now, cheerful laughs and even more meaningless arguments happening in the background creating a sweet moment for the two

…..

It was a known fact that Mafuyu was incredible at basically anything, she was indeed talented as the same with her two other lovers

However Kanade couldn’t help but stare in the moment, Mafuyu’s long wing like eyelashes which fluttered aganst her cheek every time she blinked, Mafuyu’s beautiful fair skin which was clear and soft to the touch, Mafuyu’s pretty pink lips that always seemed so kissable- how her gorgeous deep purple hair had the perfect curls in them constantly, framing her face just right, Mafuyu’s-

Mafuyu

Kanade was sure she was tomato by now- and since when did Mafuyu seem to captivating-! There no possible way that this was fair in any universe.

As blue eyes stared up at purple, a very apparent expression of triumph overtook the latter’s face before violet flooded her vision

Soft lips pressed against her own slightly chapped ones, a larger hand reaching up to caress the shorter’s jawline as her ocean eyes fluttered shut within the tender moment

Butterflies flapped inside the bluenette’s stomach, reminiscent of their first kiss when they were still teens with little crushes, just how far they’ve come since then?

The soft lips slowly pulled away to reveal a similar gaze inside the purple hues, a faint dust of pink sprinkled along the others face which was completed with a childlike smile, lips pursed together

Soft giggles elicited from the two, before a loud thump snapped them both out of the new lovey dovey sekai.

“Ah- ah-! I’m sorry I’m sorry I surrender-! Spare meeee~…!” A voice whined in fake agony as poorly acted chocking sounds were audible

“Well, should’ve thought about that before fat shaming Cheesecake you idiot-!” A voice snapped back in retort, in the same manner poorly covering a laugh

As kanade sat up with the help of Mafuyu, they both stared quizzedly at the scene before them

Defencelessly on her back and unarmed laid a pinknette, who was using her arms to shield the oncoming pillow attacks

And on top, straddling her waist was a brunette who was the said attacker, brown hair messily undone out of its small braid and a giant merciless smile across her lips as she softly shoved the pillow into the others face, silencing the victim

“Mhpfh-! She’s jphust rouwnd lwooking”

The artist was about to yell back another playful insult- before catching two onlookers watching their brawl like it was television, shooting them a half hearted glare

“What are you two lovebirds staring at eh?” She huffed

“Lovebirds?”

“L-lovebirds-?”

Mizuki laughed- albeit it was muffled from under the pillow, using the distracted Ena to their advantage and maneuvering the other to the side, causing the brunette to fall onto the bedding with an ‘oomph’

“Gosh, you really are like a cat…” Ena muttered, rolling her eyes as she sat up and stuck her tongue to to Mizuki, to which was met with the same action

“Oh, and yeah, anyone and anything with eyes could see how you two were all over each other not even a few seconds ago- the poor children are looking too“ The artist snickered in a lighthearted tone, making a side gesture to the pets who were still staring up at the four with a goofy baffled expression on their animalistic adorable faces

“It was hella hot tho~!” The pinknette peeped up, before getting another pillow smashed in her face as the composer and nurse blushed furiously as they both bashfully glanced away from each other

After a few more seconds on ongoing bickering from the neapolitan ice cream coloured duo, a cat the pounced up on the bed and came to Mizuki’s rescue, pushing itself between the two and snuggling onto the pinkette’s stomach, to which the brunette scoffed, starting a stare down with the feline

It had been awhile since the whole fight and conflict concerning the daunting pet situations,

And finally, the four of them were now all cuddled up underneath the covers of Kanade’s bed

Mafuyu laid behind Ena, her chin resting on top of the brunette’s head as she softly snored into silky long hair, Kanade was comfortably huddled on Ena’s chest, lacing hands with the former as Mizuki spooned her from behind-

Oh and of course,

On the ravenette’s pillow, a small bunny sat huddled against the headboard, its floppy ears brushing along its owners hair as a baby pink nose occasionally twitched, whiskers sensing the soft surroundings.

Near the artist’s neck, a little, surprisingly soft natured hedgehog balled up into itself, nimble quills tangled within blue hair as its delicate snout brushed along its owners chin.

And last but most certainly not least, sprawled out atop the animators stomach laid a cream shaded cat, her tail slowly swayed as it purred happily as paws rhythmically kneaded into its owner’s sides in sleep.

Unfortunately, Kanade was left with no furry creature snuggled up with her- although three girlfriends was more than enough, the girl stared at her lovers tranquil sleeping faces as she thought about what animal she’d keep if given the chance- but the idea of having to clean its habitat then groom it, and feed it seemed all too tiring

“ Psst”

Way to tiring, she probably didn’t even have enough free time

“You awake?”

Much too energy draining too

“Kanade!” A sweet voice whisper shouted into the girls ear, causing her to slightly flinch before shifting her head to the side, glancing at the source of said noise

“Oh- my bad-“ Mizuki quickly apologized, slightly wincing into herself at her own tone

“but I was thinking…” The pinkette went on, slightly tightening her grip around the shorter’s waist as she spoke

“We all have a pet, yeah? But your don’t-! And it doesn’t feel right to leave our dearest out~ so, would you want one?” Mizuki quietly asked, somehow, her voiced lacked any tiredness in it, which baffled Kanade-

Oh right the question

Kanade didn’t know exactly how to answer, after all, for one it seemed almost as Mizuki could read her mind, and the composer was conflicted on the idea-

So instead of contemplating when the poor girl was already half sleep, the specialized evacuation tactic was put into use-

operation pretend to be asleep go-!

“Eh? Kanade?”

“…..”

“Kaaanaaaadee~”

“……..”

Giant pink eyes blinked confusedly, before eventually giving up on their ever so persistent banter and finally relaxing back into the mattress

“Awh, goodnight love” The designer sighed, placing a last peck on her head before closing her eyes, leaving Kanade alone with her own thoughts

“……..”

“….’night…” She finally softly said, going back to her previous dwelling ideas

‘A pet huh…’

‘ A dog wouldn’t be that bad…’

____________________________________

By now, around a week has passed since the group had welcomed three new animals to their family, each person (minus Kanade) had to go on something called ‘pet duty’ each weekend to get the necessary items needed for the next week

This was a collectively agreed upon rule, and for the first week it was meant to be Mafuyu’s turn, then Mizuki’s, then Ena’s

However of course, the world hates lesbians, and their ravenette was called in for a shift that weekend

This caused a small turmoil to arise- their artist had a commission due and couldn’t afford to spend any time out of her studio, same was said from their fashionista as they had a client which needed a dress by Monday and wasn’t very flexible with their schedule

So by default, the responsibility fell upon the composers hands- not that she minded in the least, it was just that even after all these years, the bluenette still despised the outdoors, especially when alone

But nonetheless, within this first week everything had gone quite smoothly, no one attacked anyone, no fur or claw marks were found on any of their furnitures and it seemed all residents were happy and healthy.

Thus, Kanade would do anything to keep it that way, so without a doubt, she eagerly agreed to go out to the pet store, to which Mizuki dropped to her knees and praised the shorter for her so called ‘courageous act’, saying things like

“My dearest cat savour!”

And

“Even you can be more active than Ena~!”

Which led to Cheesecake maliciously and brutally chasing the pinkette down, all whilst a brunette passed a knowing look to a petrified Mizuki

So this is why she was currently heaving as the poor sopping wet human had to push around a cart filled with whatever was written down on a list which a very unreliable shopper created- at least that’s what Mafuyu told her

Running (again, walking at a brisk pace) up and down aisles to fetch the goods was more tiring than she thought, normally whenever her girlfriends would drag her to the mall, she’d only get tired after maybe fifteen minutes if walking which is an improvement from the ten last year-!

But now? Hauling a cart while doing it was pure torture, this would be where ether Mafuyu or Mizuki would come in and take whatever heavy load she was carrying off her hands, but right now she was stranded- alone-

was this her end…?-

Just then, a giant, ungraceful four legged being hurled itself towards the girl

Woof! Wooof!

Nearly jumping out of her skin, Kanade turned around quickly- causing her head to spin- she really should sit down right about now

After her eyesight went back to normal, she glanced down- her eyes nearly popping out of her skull

A giant dog stood there, crouching its front legs as its tail wagged energetically, panting noises could be heard from its snout as its tongue stuck out, slight drool dripping off of it

The bluette slowly backed up- accidentally bumping into her cart behind her to which she payed no mind

The dog however, simply titled its head in utter clueless to the panic which it was causing for the frail girl

Kanade began to feel more light headed after the sudden appearance- where was its owner-? And most importantlycwhy did it keep following her-!?

The composer tried to walk away, pain stinging in her arms as she attempted to push the cart forward and ignore the sad whining coming from behind

Finally, after the girl had gotten a good two aisles away, she paused to breathe- her chest heaving from the exertion of energy that felt like running a marathon-

However her eyes started to blur as her legs grew unsteady, hands clinging onto the cart’s handle to support her weight as she brought a hand to hold her throbbing forehead

‘Is this what a Mafuyu meant by people being so unathletic it pissed her off?’ Kanade recalled, frowning deeply as a weird yet familiar, dizzy feeling overtook her senses

Hands growing to strained to hold on- she felt herself grow numb, and in a daze she collapsed over onto the warm, soft fluffy ground-

Huh…?

Normally the ground in a pet store wouldn’t be fluffy…? Or smell like wood and the kibble which they’d normally feed Chibi

Slowly blinking open her eyes, Kanade softly groaned, moving her hand to to feel what she could’ve possibly fallen onto in the middle of a pet-

Woof! Ruff!

Oh…

her saviour from splitting her head open was a dog

This was a new low, even for her.

The bluenette was about to stand up from her half laying down position on the poor animal, before a tug on the sleeve of her track jersey caught her attention- forcefully

The dog nipped onto her clothes, continuously pulling down on them with a determined look in their light brown eyes, it almost seemed like they were trying to get her to sit down?

Kanade obliged- confusedly albeit, as she slowly lowered herself against the shelf of the leashes and collars with the help of the large dog

When she sat down, her head started to grow less fuzzy and dizzy, the world even stopped spinning surprisingly as a warm feeling settled atop her stomach

Peering down slightly, the animal was now resting beside her, calmly laying its head on her midriff as brown eyes stared up, its tail wagging to the same pace as its breathing

After a minute, Kanade moved her hand to gently stroke its peach and white fur on its head, watching as their tail wagged faster and something like a yawn stretched on its muzzle

The composer watched in fascination as the dogs ears flattened, matching the creatures breathing, as she eventually began to calm down her speeding heart, ocean blue eyes slowly closing as she took in slow breaths

As her breathing settles, Kanade reopened her eyes to see that the hound was sitting up, panting as it blinked

“Ruff….?” It whined, using their nose to nuzzle the girls arm

The bluenette softly smiled, placing a hand back on the canines head to give it more head pats, until the action evolved to eager pats and snuggles, the animal even beginning to lick the pale girl’s cheek as she giggled

“Aha- s-stop- hehe-“ she chocked out, tilting her head to not get any slobber on her mouth as she pushed its head away before staring at it endearingly

Bringing her hands to cup its face, Kanade whispered in the most softest tone she could muster up, feeling the need to show gratitude to her unexpected hero

“Thank you for helping- okay- okay stop now-!” She laughed, standing up before anymore attacks of licks would be dawned on her

Taking ahold once again of her cart and pushing forward, it didn’t seem to be all that heavy anymore- maybe all that walking with Ena was finally paying off-!

Nope, the giant dog was pushing along on the wheels for her…

Sighing, Kanade began to finish the shopping list, picking up some dried vegetables for Yuki, although all the various options were giving her a slight headache, from colourful packages to more dull and earthy ones- she didn’t seem to know which one would be her girlfriend’s pet’s favourite

A small frown came on her lips, before she heard a crinkle and the feeling of something plastic push against her open palm

Staring not all that much down, sure enough “her” dog was pushing a package of freeze dried carrots and strawberry’s into her hand

Blinking with confused eyes- she met the gaze of said hound, who was looking up expectantly, so without questioning it, Kanade took the treats and tossed them in the cart

Second to last, apparently their artist so desperately needed a mini plush for Cheesecake, to which the composer furrowed her eyebrows at- but yet again, wouldn’t question it

So here she stood, looking at the many toys laid out across the shelves on the floor-

Unlike food however- preferences in things like stuffed toys would be entirely subjective right? What if she picked a toy that the little hedgehog didn’t like and it gave her that cold glare? Kanade knew she couldn’t mess up, she wouldn’t.

But looking at the options, once again, caused a cold sweat to form in her forehead- it’s just a toy for crying out loud-!

That is- before a shining light came through, and a squeak on the floor couod be heard

Crouching down beside the canine which was by now just following her around, she gently took the plush out of its mouth-

The toy was a stuffed cartoonish flower with pink, brown, maroon and purple petals on it, curiously, the bluenette squished it- sending the little ball inside off to cause a squeak, to which the dog instantly barked at

Smiling, she stood up, happily rubbing its head and then tossing the toy into their cart

Now finally, at long last came the final item-! She could go home and be free after!

Coming to the collar isle, the already overwhelmed girl froze in her tracks-

Why the hell did this store have three whole shelves just for every possible shade imaginable-?

Letting out a small whine, Kanade moved her cart to the side, before she began to inspect the array of colours and patterns to which her eyes begged to burst into tears-

Poor Chibi is going to be so disappointed- Kanade knew well her fashion sense was no where near any of her girlfriends-

Alright maybe she could rival Mafuyu’s middle aged mom style, but still-!

The pinkette’s cat is going to have to walk around with her decision around its neck, so the composer was going to make sure she looked fa-

“ Woof-! Woof…? ” The orangey and white coloured dog stared up so innocently, its tail wagging as they had a certain item in their mouth

Curious, Kanade leaned down to look at the material-

Lo and behold it was a collar-

It had a soft velvety texture to it, with a light pink colour with little white designs along the sides, and to top it all off- a white bow at the back

To say the bluenette was drowning in shame right now would be too much of an understatement, not only did a dog more than half the size of her basically do all the shopping- but she got out dressed by it too!

Nonetheless, the canine looked so happy to go around with her, prancing along and barking at random things whilst also helping push- she’d be willing to be publicly humiliated anytime to see that.

Coming to the register, Kanade gave the adorable beast one last head scratch before checking out, and as she got all the ‘needed’ items bagged, the dog still followed to her confusion

“Huh? Uh- it was nice meeting you! But I have to leave now-“

“Woof! Woof!” It barked, leaping up and down on its hind legs, drawing a bit of attention from other customers

The cashier looked over, seeing the interaction before smiling and turning to Kanade

“Excuse me ma’m- are you looking to adopt?” She kindly asked, scanning the last few treats

Kanade tore her attention away from the excited hound to the lady, giving an apologetic smile

“Ah- uh I’m not sure-“

“I see you’ve met our foster here-! She’s a Shiba Inu, very friendly- and about two years old right now, not much families are interested because of her size…but she’s seemed to take a liking into you!” The cashier exclaimed, turning around to grab something, before extending her arm out to the bluenette

“Here, you can give her a treat if you’d like, maybe it’ll spark something!”

The composer gulped, taking the bone shaped treat and crouching down to the dogs eye level

“S-sit..” she said in a slightly shaky tone- nonono she can’t get attached-!

The Shiba inu then joyfully barked, before sitting down and patiently waiting, taking the treat from frail hands before chomping down on it

Kanade watched…unfortunately, as her eyes filled with adoration, the way it looked up at her, expecting more food with those giant orbs-

The girl slowly stood back up, turning to the lady with a regretful spark in her azure eyes

“Does she do well with other animals?”

…..

Ding Dong!

The doorbell went off, alerting the three girls that their last lover was finally back-! And strangely took much- much longer than she should have…

Nonetheless, Mizuki and Ena leapt up and raced to the door, once again leaving a tired nurse to trail behind after a 12 hour shift

The pinkette quickly lifted up her cat so they wouldn’t run out the door, who in return meowed in surprise before peppering licks to her owners face

“H-hey hehe, Ena~na can you get the door pretty please?” She sang, passing a side glance at the brunette to nearly tripped over a very badly placed mouse toy on the floor, grumbling something incoherent

“Yeah yeah- I was going to anyways” she mumbled, rolling her eyes sarcastically before putting a hand to the doorknob but didn’t open it just yet, turning around

“Mafuyu-! Do you have-“

“Yes I’m holding them” The ravenette stepped out of the living room into the hallway, carrying a bunny in one hand and a pretty pissed off looking hedgehog in the other

Ena nodded, the last time they got a package and went to open the front door- both Cheesecake and Chibi thought it was a wonderful idea to sprint out, luckily for them they had an former track runner easily catch up- altough the image of a sprinting Mafuyu must’ve been a scary sight for the two tiny creatures

Eagerly pulling the door open, the brunette smiled at seeing her younger girlfriend, right as she was about to usher her in and scold her for taking so long before they all kissed and snuggled on the couch-

A terrible- terrible sight awaited-

Kanade was heaving- having to carry three bags at once in her thin arms and yet-

That’s not what caused the look of entire horror to flood Ena’s face-

A giant dog came sprinting out of their shared car, footsteps echoing like thunder as it ran-

Straight

For

Her

Screaming, the artist tried to back away, but it was futile, the giant beast pushed past Kanade and pounced up despite its weight and tackled the brunette

Both falling into the wooden floors as she was attacked by the ravenous monster slobbers

“N-noddle stop!” The bluenette cried out through heavy breaths, trying to take hold of the large dog who was relentless on licking the skin off her girlfriend

Behind- Mafuyu stood in pure confusion as the two mammals who were previously in her arms had already scurried and ran away from all the commotion, leaving just the girls and Chibi behind

Mizuki however- bursted into a full on laughing fit, clutching her stomach as she leaned on the wall

“Oh- oh my gosh-! Ha-! I told you Kana would get a pet! Geh- but not one so big-“ she chocked out, putting down her cat before she could accidentally throw it off from how hard she was laughing at the situation

Mafuyu scoffed, walking forward past the pinkette to kneel down beside the pinned brunette who was full on sobbing by now

With all the noise it was getting irritating- so like any rational human, the lyricist moved her hands under the artist’s arms, picking her up like a baby and away from the incoming attacker who simply stared up and patiently waited for the girl to be out back down, tongue stupidly poking out whilst its tail wagged

“Hah-..hah- what the fuck was that-!?” She screeched, clinging onto the nurse’s arm as she squirmed away from the dog-

so this is how Akito must’ve felt.

At long last, the composer sat beside her pet, slinging and arm around its neck to stop them from pushing further and frightening the brunette anymore

Taking in a breath, Kanade put on the most kicked puppy look she ever had- causing Noodle to glance at her and mimic the stare with their own authenticity

“Uhm… this is Noodle-“ She said in a soft voice as the dog gave a few pathetic whines, to which the fiery glare of the artist slightly faltered from her safe position behind the taller

“No- nonononono-! No way in hell-“

“Pweaseee~?” A pink haired girl crept up from behind, snaking her arms around the shorter’s waist while putting on a pout

“Are you kidding me-? This again-“

“Pretty please, Ena” a blunt voice said from above, violet eyes staring down at her with sadness- the brunette could’ve sworn there were bunny ears drooping from the taller’s head right now-!

Giving that dog one last glare, she let out the most annoyed loud sigh to let the whole world know she was not having a good time, and is willingly being forced into this

“……”

“This is the last one, I swear to God”

_____________________________

According to a wise Mizuki, the amount of cats any good lesbian couple should have is three, and since there were four of them- that meant that 11 more cats had to be adopted, ASAP!

“Enanananananann~ can we get a giant tiger pleaseeee-“

Were the last words anyone heard from the pinknette before she mysteriously went missing within the depts of an artist’s room, legend has it, a brunette till this day is still suffocating the other with a yellow cat shaped pillow…!

or not who knows