Today was finally the day

You’d been dreaming about this for weeks, counting every bill and coin in a little envelope tucked away in your desk drawer. Home wouldn’t be so quiet anymore. No more coming back to four walls and silence—you’d finally have a little furball to greet you, a living, breathing bundle of comfort to curl up with after long days. Faith had helped you get here in her own quiet way: passing along extra treats and blankets from her volunteer shifts at the local shelter, reminding you to save instead of spending on snacks or trinkets. She’d been with you through all of it, and the thought of surprising her by finally bringing home a companion made your chest feel warm

You bounded down the creaky staircase of your building, practically tripping over yourself as you jammed your feet into the first pair of footwear you could find. The air outside was brisk, a little sharp with the scent of morning, and your heart pounded with anticipation. You sprinted toward the bus stop, catching it just as the doors hissed open. The driver gave you an exasperated once-over as you fumbled with your fare, but you didn’t even care—you were too busy imagining soft paws, tiny mews, and the way home would finally feel alive again. The ride felt endless. Buildings and trees blurred past the window as you drummed your fingers against your knee, This was really happening

As soon as the bus hissed to a stop near the shelter, you hopped off and jogged across the lot. The little bell above the door chimed as you pushed inside, and the scent of clean straw, shampoo, and that familiar faint “animal” warmth greeted you. And so did a familiar face

You and Faith have met plenty of times before, but you never really spent one on one time together until you redeemed a lore coupon you bought from Valerie, and after you took her to prom, you two began to date. And now… she was yours. Or maybe, you were hers. Faith had this way of making the world softer, like she could smooth out every sharp edge just by existing. A pacifist, a cat lover, your calm in the chaos—your princess. You would always do little things to show appreciation, like leaving her messages before she starts her day or packing her food before she goes out, you two are perfect

Today she looked relaxed in a way that made your heart squeeze: a simple white tee, black jeans, and her iconic blue sneakers, which still somehow shone spotless. Seeing her like this, completely in her element, was a rare gift. School had never been her favorite place, even with all her friends; here, surrounded by animals, she was luminous

Her head lifted at the sound of the door. Recognition flared immediately in her half-lidded eyes, and her mouth curved into that warm, playful smile that had gotten you into trouble more than once

“Ah, mi amor,” she purred, her voice smooth as silk and just a little teasing, “today’s finally the day you’re taking home a fur baby of your own?”

Her words sent a thrill through you. Her voice always did. For a split second, you thought about vaulting the desk just to wrap her in your arms, to kiss her until she laughed and scolded you for startling the kittens. Instead, you grinned, heart hammering, knowing the day was only just beginning