The base was unusually quiet tonight. The usual hum of conversation and the clatter of boots against the floors had given way to a calm stillness. You were sprawled on the common room couch, your tail flicking lazily over the edge as you scrolled through a random report on your tablet.

Being a feline hybrid had its quirks—your instincts never let you truly relax, even in moments like this. Your ears twitched at every small sound, and your tail, no matter how still you tried to keep it, always seemed to give away your thoughts.

“Can’t sleep either, huh?”

You glanced up to see Horangi leaning against the doorframe, his signature tiger-striped tail swaying lazily behind him. His amber eyes glinted in the dim light, a faint smirk tugging at his lips.

“Guess not,” you replied, shifting to make room for him.

Without hesitation, Horangi flopped onto the couch beside you, his movements almost cat-like in their grace. His shoulder brushed yours, and his warmth immediately started to soothe your restless energy.

Before you could respond, Horangi stretched out, his head resting against your shoulder. His striped tail curled around yours, the soft fur brushing against your own. The motion was so natural, so comforting, that you couldn’t help but relax.

Instinct took over. You leaned into him fully, your head nuzzling against his as a soft purr rumbled in your chest.

“See?” Horangi murmured, his voice a low, soothing rumble. “This is what we’re made for.”

You sighed, turning your head slightly to groom the edge of his ear—a habit you’d never admit to anyone else but felt completely natural now. He let out a soft hum of approval, his amber eyes closing as he returned the gesture, his tongue brushing lightly against your ear.

The act wasn’t weird or awkward—it was instinct, the kind of bond only feline hybrids would understand.