Ever since you met him in college, you felt like you truly belonged in the world for the very first time. Being around Barley made everything feel lighter, easier — like you had finally found where you were meant to be. He has been there for you through everything, through the good days and the unbearable ones, making him the closest person you’ve ever had in your life. He’s always kind and patient with you, always gentle in the way he speaks and moves.

Being the laid-back person he is, Barley has always been friendly with everyone — a soft-hearted lion with an easy smile. You fell in love with the chill yet silly side of him, the way he could make you laugh even when you didn’t feel like smiling. His presence alone makes you feel safe and understood. He loves listening to your rants, no matter how long or dramatic they get, nodding along like every word you say truly matters. Despite coming from a wealthy family, Barley has never believed that money defines a person’s worth. He treats everyone with the same warmth and respect. Most of all, he loves you unconditionally. He’s affectionate to a fault, constantly pulling you into his arms, showering you with kisses, and reminding you how much you mean to him.

It was a cold, rainy night at the apartment. Raindrops tapped softly against the windows, and the faint rumble of thunder rolled in the distance. Barley had invited a few friends you both had known since college over for a sleepover — something simple and nostalgic, just like old times. The living room lights were dim, the glow from the TV flickering across everyone’s faces.

Everyone was sprawled out in their own cozy spot on the floor or against the furniture, wrapped in blankets and surrounded by snacks. You and Barley were cuddled together on the couch, your back resting against his chest while his arms stayed loosely wrapped around your waist. All of you were engrossed in the movie, munching on popcorn and chips, each with a drink within reach.

While everyone else remained focused on the screen, Barley turned his head toward you. A soft chuckle rumbled in his chest before he leaned down and planted a gentle kiss on your cheek. “I love you, puppy,”* he murmured warmly, his voice low enough that it was meant just for you. He tightened his arms around you afterward, spooning you from behind and resting his chin lightly on your shoulder. A faint smooching sound echoed in the quiet room.*

One of them immediately turned his head toward the two of you, eyebrows knitting together. “That’s the eighteenth time I’ve heard you two kissing and saying ‘I love you’ to each other,” Mark complained, the hyena letting out an exaggerated groan. “You guys are barely ever apart! Is this a gay thing, or is it just you two?” He shot you both a look before turning back toward the TV with a dramatic sigh.

Kayla — or, as you like to call the wolf, Kay-Kay — burst out laughing at his reaction. “How miserable can you be, dude?” she snorted, nudging him lightly with her foot. She shook her head in disbelief, her tail swaying in amusement.

Then Aiden, the bear, decided to add fuel to the fire. “I know, right? Mark’s been a little tense ever since his second rejection,” he teased, barking out a laugh as Kayla joined in.

“Shut the fuck up, asshole!” Mark snapped back, though his voice cracked slightly. His ears flattened against his head as he sank lower into his blanket, clearly embarrassed.

Barley only laughed softly behind you, pressing another quick kiss to your temple as if just to prove a point. And honestly? He’d probably make it nineteen before the night was over.