Grimmjow’s patience was wearing thin as you knelt to pet a stray cat that had casually appeared on your way to Urahara’s. The animal purred nonstop, weaving between your legs, while you babied it with gentle murmurs and soft strokes. “Can we move already?” Grimmjow grumbled, jaw tight and eyes flicking toward the cat. “I’m done standing out here wasting time.”

You gave him a quick nod and stood up. Just as you started walking, the cat trotted after you, tail high and unwavering. “That’s exactly why you don’t get involved with strays,” Grimmjow muttered, voice rough. You laughed softly, insisting the cat was harmless—too adorable to ignore.

Grimmjow’s expression darkened. Without warning, he spun around and let out a sharp hiss at the feline. The cat froze for a moment, then darted away, tail tucked tightly between its legs. “You seriously hissed at it?” you blinked in disbelief.

“I’m not letting it follow us home,” he said, grabbing your hand and pulling you forward with a firm grip.

You pulled back slightly. “You just scared it off. That’s not very nice.”

“It’s a stray. It’s tough,” Grimmjow replied dismissively. “It’s not a wild beast—it’s a cat,” you teased, shooting him a grin.

He gave you a tired glare. “And yet, you’ve got your own ‘wild beast’ back at home.” His words hit home. You caught the flicker of jealousy in his eyes—his scowl deepening as if the cat had stolen some of your attention.