Smoking cats - shinsero

Stray Feelings

The next few days passed in a blur of unexpected meetings. Shinsou didn't know why, but every time he stepped outside for a walk with Tipi, Sero seemed to appear out of nowhere. At first, Shinsou thought it was just a coincidence - UA was a big place, and the town wasn't that small - but now, it was starting to feel like something more.

Tipi, of course, was thrilled. She would spot Sero from a mile away, her tail perking up as she trotted over to him, expecting more snacks.

"I told you more treats," Shinsou said, mock-stern, as Sero crouched down to greet the eager cat.

Sero laughed, scratching Tipi behind the ears.
"Yeah, yeah, I remember. Don't worry, I'm unarmed today." He looked up at the purple haired boy with a grin, and for some reason, that easy smile made Shinsou feel... softer.

He folded his arms, pretending not to be affected.
"Good. I think she's already gained a pound from all the stuff you've been feeding her."

"Hey, it's not my fault she's got a taste for granola bars now."

Shinsou rolled his eyes, but there was no real bite behind it. Tipi purred loudly, weaving between Sero's legs, clearly having decided that he was her new best friend. And maybe, Shinsou thought, Sero wasn't so bad either.

They fell into an easy rhythm over the next few weeks. Shinsou found himself inviting the boy to walk with him and Tipi more often, their late afternoon strolls becoming a routine that neither of them questioned. Tipi would lead the way, darting between brushes and jumping on low walls, while Sero and Shinsou followed, their conversation light and relaxed.

One evening, as they walked back toward Shinsou's apartment, the sun setting low on the horizon, Sero cleared his throat awkwardly.
"You know, I've never really thanked you. For... you know, not killing me the night we met."

Shinsou snorted. "You make it sound like I was planning your murder."

"Well, you did try to brainwash me, so..." Sero shot him a tensing glance.

Shinsou sighed dramatically, but he couldn't help the smirk that tugged at his lips.
"You were feeding my cat junk food and smoking around her. I think that's reasonable grounds for suspicion."

"Fair point," Sero continued with a laugh. He stuffed his hands into his pockets, glancing at the other with a softer expression.
"But seriously, I'm glad we ran into each other. You're... cool to hang out with."

Shinsou blinked, caught off guard by the sincerity in Sero's voice.
"Thanks. You're not so bad yourself," he said, looking away to hide the warmth creeping up his neck.

They walked in silence for a while, the gentle evening breeze wrapping around them, carrying with it the quiet chirps of crickets. Shinsou found himself glancing over at Sero now and then, noticing how the fading sunlight painted his face in soft, golden hues. There was something peaceful about being with him - something that made Shinsou feel lighter, like the usual weight on his shoulders had eased just a little.

Tipi, now tired from her adventure, jumped into Shinsou's arms, curling up contentedly. Shinsou scratched behind her ears, smiling softly.
"She really likes you, you know."

Sero looked at the cat fondly.
"Yeah, I guess we've gotten a bond or something."

"Looks like it." Shinsou hesitated for a moment before adding,
"I think... she's happier now."

The black haired boy raised an eyebrow.
"Because of me?"

"Maybe. I dunno." The other shrugged.
"She's just... more lively. I think you've helped with that."

Sero gave him a sideways look, the playful edge to his smile fading into something more thoughtful.
"I think it's the other way around," he said quietly.
"You and Tipi... you've both kind of helped me more than you know."

Shinsou blinked, surprised by the sudden vulnerability in Sero's voice. He wasn't used to people opening up like this - not in a way that felt so honest. But instead of pulling away, he felt himself lean into the moment, into Sero's words.

"Yeah?" He asked, his tone gentle, though he didn't push for more.

Sero gave a small nod, his eyes focused on the pavement beneath them.
"Yeah. Things have been... rough for a while, but hanging out with you, it's been a nice change. I don't feel so... alone."

The purple haired boy felt something tug at his chest - something warm and unfamiliar. He knew that feeling all too well. It was the same reason he had adopted Tipi in the first place, why he had started walking her every day to clear his mind. Maybe we're not so different after all.

"Well, you're not alone now," Shinsou said quietly, his words carrying more weight than he intended. He looked down at Tipi, who was purring softly in his arms.
"And Tipi likes having you around too, so I guess you're stuck with us."

Sero's fave broke into a grin, his usual lightness returning as he bumped the other's shoulder gently.
"I could think of worse things than being stuck with you two."

Shinsou rolled his eyes, though his lips twitched with a small smile. Maybe this was okay. Maybe, for the first time in a long time, this was more than okay.

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