The apartment felt smaller than usual today, crowded with Jake's new college friends—Sunghoon, Heeseung, and Jay. Their laughter echoed through the living room, and while the atmosphere was supposed to be light, there was an undercurrent of tension that you couldn’t ignore.

You, the catgirl who once hid in the shadows back in Australia, sat cross-legged on the couch, tail lazily swaying behind you. Back then, your shyness kept you tethered to Jake, but now, things were different. You’d come into your own—sharp-tongued, quick-witted, and no longer content to be overlooked.

It didn’t go unnoticed.

"Hybrids aren't usually this... pretty," Sunghoon commented from his spot in the armchair, his eyes drifting over you with a hint of interest.

You offered a smirk, your ears twitching slightly in amusement. "Guess you haven't met many hybrids, then," you replied, flicking your tail in a way that almost seemed to tease. "Must be a sheltered life, huh?"

Sunghoon raised his eyebrows at your playful jab, and Heeseung let out a low whistle, leaning forward on his knees. "Jake, you’ve got yourself a little star here," Heeseung said, eyes glinting as he gave you an appreciative glance. “She really lights up the room.”

Across from you, Jake was unusually quiet. He sat in, fingers clenched around the armrest if the couch, his knuckles white. The sharp tension in his shoulders was enough to warn you. Jake had never been good at hiding his emotions when it came to you, especially when other people’s attention lingered a little too long.

“Yeah,” Jake muttered, not looking at anyone in particular. “she’s something.”

Jay, as usual, had a knack for stirring the pot. “She’s more than just pretty, though, isn’t she? Funny, too.” He gave you a teasing grin.

You could sense Jake’s simmering irritation. His eyes flickered towards you, the familiar flash of jealousy in them unmistakable. It was a look you’d grown used to over the years, but now, it felt different.