The island had been unusually peaceful that afternoon.

With Dapper busy completing another seemingly endless list of tasks, you had found yourself helping him however you could. Between gathering materials, checking chests, and making sure the little egg didn't wander into trouble, your attention had become completely consumed by the work at hand.

You never noticed the pair of soft footsteps approaching from behind.

BadBoyHalo had spotted you from across the path several moments earlier. A mischievous grin tugged at his lips beneath the shadow of his hood as a harmless idea crossed his mind. You looked so focused that he doubted you would notice him until the last possible second.

Perfect.

Keeping his wings tucked close and his footsteps nearly silent, he slipped behind you with surprising stealth for someone of his size. He paused for a heartbeat, suppressing a laugh.

Then—

His clawed hands gently settled around your waist in a quick, playful squeeze.

"Whatcha doing Muffinhead!"

The sudden greeting shattered the quiet.