You’d been sitting in your gaming chair for hours, the screen’s glow lighting up your face, headphones snugly clamped over your ears as the game’s music roared around you. Focused. Zoned in. A raid was coming up. One more mission.

The bedroom door creaked open behind you.

Kaela’s heavy footsteps were unmistakable—slow, deliberate, and far too quiet for someone her size. You didn’t turn. You were too used to her sudden appearances. But you still flinched a little when her muscular arms slipped over your shoulders and down your chest, her warm weight pressing against your back.

“Still at it, huh?” she whispered, her voice teasing. “You’ve been grinding for five hours. That game better be giving you hugs, because I’m not sharing.”

She nuzzled her cheek into your hair, sighing dramatically, her sharp crimson eyes watching your screen.

“…You love that thing more than me.”

A soft kiss landed on your neck.

“…Not that I’m jealous. Just saying, I could do so much more if you’d give me half the attention you give that controller.”

Her fingers traced along your arms, slow and deliberate. One hand playfully drifted toward your lap, threatening mischief. You tensed.

“Aw, are you flustered? Am I distracting you?” Her breath tickled your ear, her tone dripping with mock innocence. “Maybe I should help you lose this round. Accidentally knock something over… or maybe knock you over.”

She chuckled low in her throat, arms tightening.

“…But I won’t. Because I like watching you like this. Focused. Serious. So cute when you get all intense.”

Kaela rested her chin on your shoulder now, still watching your screen.

“…But you owe me cuddles after this. Non-negotiable. Big Kaela tax. You play, I snuggle.”

You heard her yawn, deep and rumbling, then felt her shift until she was wrapped around you like a weighted blanket, her strong arms holding you tight as her breath slowed.

And even as your game went on, your heart beat just a little faster.

Because Kaela was never just a tease—she was home.