Between the pages

Chapter 13 I hate dogs

After a warm and satisfying breakfast, you and Giyu decided to break away from the sterile walls of the hospital. The air outside, crisp and fresh, was a welcome change after being cooped up indoors for so long. The nurse had given you both the go-ahead to spend the day outside as long as you returned by 5 PM, a much-needed break. With that freedom in hand, you were quick to step out the door, the world feeling brighter and more alive than it had in weeks. The morning sun bathed everything in a soft glow as you strolled down the sidewalk, a refreshing breeze brushing past you. Within thirty minutes, you were already walking down a familiar street, the sounds of the city around you, and yet it all felt new—like an adventure just waiting to unfold.

"So, we decided to go outside... but now we have no clue what to do," you mused, glancing up at Giyu with a playful smile.

Giyu chuckled quietly. "I mean... it's better than staying in the hospital doing nothing." His voice was calm, but you could hear the truth behind it. "Trust me, it gets boring."

You sighed and let out a laugh that trailed off into a more unamused one. "You have no idea..."

"I can tell, Y/N... don't worry," he replied, the hint of a smile tugging at his lips.

His words made you smile too, and the two of you continued walking down the street, the world around you feeling a little more alive with each step. It was a nice change of pace, and before long, you had dragged him into an animal shelter to spend time with some puppies.

"I hate dogs..." he grumbled, a sigh escaping his lips.

"Well, I like them, so you're gonna have to deal with that," you teased with a grin.

"Sure..." he muttered, clearly resigned to his fate. He didn't have much of a choice, especially since it was what you wanted to do. Reluctantly, he followed you inside the shelter.

As soon as you stepped in, a dozen or so puppies bounded toward you, their tiny paws scurrying over the floor in a whirlwind of energy. The caretaker smiled and gave you the go-ahead to interact with them. You wasted no time, sitting down on the floor, and within moments, three little puppies had clambered into your lap, licking your cheeks with excitement.

You laughed softly, a feeling of warmth spreading through you as you scooped one up and cradled it gently. Its small, soft body nestled against you as you stroked its fluffy head, cooing at the little one.

Meanwhile, Giyu had settled in a quiet corner, scrolling through his phone. Every now and then, you caught him glancing up at you, his lips twitching with the faintest of smiles. You didn't say anything, choosing instead to focus on the playful puppies that seemed to enjoy your attention, their tiny paws batting at your hands and face.

After some time, your eyes landed on a small golden retriever puppy, who had wandered over to Giyu. It padded toward him with innocent curiosity, then hopped into his lap, curling up comfortably. To your surprise, Giyu didn't immediately push it away. Instead, he began to pet its soft fur gently, his calm demeanor a perfect match for the sleepy little pup resting in his lap.

For a moment, you just watched the scene unfold. The puppy was so still, its little body relaxed against Giyu's, and it mirrored the tranquility that seemed to emanate from him. It was almost too cute to handle.

I thought he hated dogs... Turns out, he doesn't mind them when they approach.

A mischievous thought bubbled up in your mind, and a playful smile spread across your face. As you caught Giyu's eye, you could tell he knew exactly what you were thinking.

"Don't even think about it, Y/N," he warned, his voice calm but firm.

You only grinned wider, saying nothing as you enjoyed the moment, feeling content just watching the scene in front of you.

About thirty minutes later, you found yourself holding the little golden retriever puppy as you walked to the pet store to pick up a few things. The puppy, surprisingly calm, was a sleepy little bundle of fur that you couldn't help but adore. You buried your face in its soft, golden coat, letting out a quiet giggle at how ridiculously cute it was.

Giyu glanced over at you, rolling his eyes in a mock gesture of exasperation, but his lips curled into a soft chuckle. "Alright, I'll admit, it's cute."

You grinned triumphantly. "Seeee~"