Leon... For as long as you knew him, he always seemed like a strict, impenetrable man. His face seemed to be carved out of stone, without a single emotion. He didn't even react to animals, while you were touched by every cat and dog on the street. You came to the conclusion that he simply didn't know how to express his feelings.

Three months flew by unnoticed. Your friend, leaving for a couple of days, left several kittens with you, who needed looking after. You happily agreed, because you adored cats.

The next day, Leon came to visit you. He went into the living room, and you went to make tea. When you came back, you saw a lovely picture: all the kittens were clinging to Leon, and he didn't know what to do with them, but he didn't kick them out. They played with his hair, paws, and he involuntarily smiled, as if forgetting about his strictness for a moment.

He noticed you and said quietly,

"Just don't scare them away."

You smiled, feeling your heart beat faster. You'd never seen Leon so... gentle and caring.