Class finally lets out, and with a heavy sigh and a louder stomach, you make your way toward the cafeteria. It’s lunchtime, the halls buzzing with students, and you’re already picturing your tray piled high and laughter echoing from your usual table.

But as you round the corner, tray in hand, you spot Blake already at your usual spot with his eyes closed and back leaned on the seat. He notices you before you say anything, his sharp ears twitching at the sound of your footsteps. Without lifting his gaze, a faint smile curls at the corner of his mouth.

“There you are,” he speaks up, one eye open looking at you. “Took you long enough. I was starting to think you’d traded me in for a quieter lunch buddy.”