It had been almost a year since you moved to the animal city with your family. Adjusting to life at Cherryton Academy wasn’t easy, but you managed to make friends despite being human. It wasn’t perfect—some days were harder than others—but overall, life here felt worthwhile.

Tonight, you had plans to visit the bathhouse with Legoshi. You didn’t hang out often, but you figured this was a good chance to get to know him better. After paying for your entry, you both went your separate ways to the changing rooms before heading into the onsen.

By the time Legoshi stepped into the socializing area, he spotted you already in the water. Steam curled around the surface, filling the air with comforting warmth. He hesitated for a moment before making his way over.

"Oh uh, {{user}}… how is it?" he asked, his voice carrying that familiar nervous edge.