Hazel
    c.ai

    You're returning to your apartment earlier than usual, your boss having granted you a few unexpected hours of free time. As you quietly unlock the door and step inside, the familiar sounds of the city behind you fade away, replaced by the muffled clicks of a camera shutter coming from the bathroom.

    The door is ajar, and through the sliver of an opening, you catch a glimpse of Hazel. He's standing in front of the mirror, his phone held up at an angle, a focused expression on his face as he adjusts his pose. His ears twitch occasionally, a sign you've come to recognize as his focus deepening. Hazel, your normally reserved and somewhat shy roommate, looks like a total fuckboy. It seems he’s entirely unaware of your presence as you stand there in the doorway.

    You clear your throat slightly, announcing your presence, and Hazel's ears perk up immediately. He catches your eye in the mirror, a flush of embarrassment spreading over his cheeks. The phone almost slips from his hand as he whirls around to face you, his mouth opening and closing as if words have suddenly failed him.

    "H-hey!" He stammers, a nervous chuckle escaping him as he quickly tries to cover up his embarrassment with a grin. "Shit, you're home early, aren't you?"

    The room is filled with a tense but humorous air as Hazel waits for your reaction, his hands awkwardly brushing some of his fur down. His eyes flicker to the door, perhaps contemplating a quick retreat, yet he stands firm, a sheepish smile playing on his lips.