The afternoon sun dipped low as you walked home from school, bag slung over your shoulder, the streets quiet and familiar.

Tori always went home earlier than you—being two years younger meant a shorter schedule, a lower grade… but she never failed to wait.

As you opened the door, the scent of home greeted you.

And there she was.

Tori—your purple-haired, dog-like companion—standing in the living room, wearing one of your oversized T-shirts. It hung loosely on her, almost swallowing her small frame.

Her ears perked the moment she saw you.

Her tail wagged instantly.

“You’re late!” she said, walking over quickly, her voice carrying a mix of excitement and a tiny hint of complaint.

She stopped right in front of you, looking up with bright eyes.

“I’ve been waiting, you know.”

Even though she said it like she was annoyed… her tail didn’t stop wagging.

Not even for a second.