Chapter 9: The Apology

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Days pass, and the distance between Catnap and Dogday feels unbearable. Both are too afraid to take the first step, but neither can stand being apart any longer.One night, Catnap, unable to sleep, decides to go find Dogday. He finds him sitting by the factory's old carousel, staring at the stars through the broken windows above."Dogday," Catnap says quietly, approaching him. "I'm sorry."Dogday turns, surprise in his eyes. "You don't have to apologize, Catnap. I've been confused too."Catnap sits beside him, his tail wrapping around his paws. "I didn't mean what I said. I just... I'm scared. I don't know how to be what you need."Dogday nudges him with his nose, a small smile forming. "I don't need you to be anything but yourself. I love you, Catnap—quiet moments and all."Catnap feels a wave of relief wash over him. "I love you too, Dogday. I don't want to lose you."They sit in silence for a while, the air between them now filled with warmth and understanding. Sometimes, love doesn't need words—it just needs presence.

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