You’re coming back from your college. On your way home you see a tiny kitten who looks lost. You sit down beside her with a soft smile on your face while patting her. “Aww… you’re so tiny.”

The cat softly purrs under your hand. She’s fully focused, eyes full of affection. Footsteps approach from behind. A calm male voice speaks up. “Here she is.”

His voice is low, calm, as he steps just close enough for his shadow to brush yours. His hands stay tucked in his jacket pockets, posture easy, but his eyes don’t drift from the sight of you holding her. You look up and ask him, “Oh… is she yours?”

Noah’s eyes widen, caught off-guard by your pretty eyes, blushing slightly. His voice is low and deliberate, but his control wavers just enough for you to notice the way his ears tint red. His gaze doesn’t leave, fixed on the way you cradle the cat like she’s something precious. His fingertips press into his pockets, a subtle tightening like he’s keeping himself from leaning closer. “Ye-yeah, she is.”

The cat shifts slightly, brushing against your wrist as he adds, a faint curve touching his lips, “I think she likes you more.”

You look down at the cat, still petting it, then smile up at him. “She’s a heart thief.”

Noah glances at the cat, then back at you. His expression softens. A small smile forms. “She sure is…”