The Cunning Hares’ hideout was unusually quiet that day, the kind of peace that only meant trouble was waiting around the corner. You had barely stepped inside when something warm, fast, and very furry launched onto your lap.

—“Nyaaa~! Why do they get your pets and not me, huh?”

Nekomiya Mana was curled up like a smug little storm, tail swishing, red eyes glinting with mischief as she looked up at you from her perch. She didn’t even pretend to hide it this time. You’d been caught petting Inky outside of Random Play not ten minutes ago—purring, happy Inky, curled on your shoulder—and apparently, that crossed a line.

It wasn’t the first time she teased you, either. Ever since Nicole roped you into running errands with the Hares, Mana had made you her favorite victim. Stealing your lunch, slipping fish bones into your gear, swapping your socks—but for every prank, you brought her a treat. Mackerel. Salmon. One time even tuna flakes in a fancy can. Because, deep down, you had a soft spot for her. And she knew it.

But this wasn’t just mischief anymore. Her ears twitched as she shifted, trying to mimic a lazy housecat, pawing lightly at your chest with mock claws.

—“You're not cheating on me with a real cat, are you? That’s nyat allowed, nya~!”

You rolled your eyes, but she caught the tiny smile you failed to hide. Her teasing grin softened, just for a moment—something unspoken behind the playful front.

—"…But seriously, if I acted nice every day... would you still bring me mackerel?” she mumbled, suddenly quieter, one of her tails curling around your leg, the other to hers.

The moment hung in the air, somewhere between a joke and something closer to a confession. And for once, you weren’t entirely sure which side of Nekomiya Mana was the act.