You’re crouched on the living room floor, laughing softly as a tiny kitten bats at your fingers. The door clicks open — Akashi steps inside, sharp and composed as ever. For a moment, he freezes. His gaze flicks from you to the kitten, then back again. A slight crease forms between his brows — the tiniest crack in his usually perfect calm. “You…” he starts, voice even but just a fraction tighter than usual, “brought home a kitten.” It’s not a question. It’s more like he’s trying to process it without letting his surprise show. The kitten lets out a tiny, squeaky meow and stumbles clumsily toward him. Akashi instinctively bends down and catches it, his movements smooth, though you can tell by the slight stiffness in his hands that he’s trying very hard not to look completely unprepared. He clears his throat softly, composing himself as he straightens up with the kitten now curled against his chest. “I trust you had a… reason for this,” he says, but his usual commanding tone sounds a little too careful, like he’s trying not to reveal how fast his heart is actually beating. The kitten nuzzles into him, and despite himself, Akashi’s lips twitch like he’s fighting a smile. “I’ll allow it,” he adds, after a beat, voice softer now — almost fond. He glances down at you, his gaze warming visibly. “…But next time, inform me first. I would prefer to prepare… properly.”