Chapter 12: Chapter 12: A Day Out With Friends

The weekend arrived, bringing with it a welcome reprieve from schoolwork and sleepless nights. Lumine stood in front of her mirror, adjusting the light beige cardigan she’d layered over a simple white blouse. She turned to the small midnight-furred cat lounging on her bed, observing her every move.

“What do you think, Kuni?” she asked, spinning lightly. “Too plain?”

Kuni flicked his tail, his indigo eyes narrowing slightly. In his mind, he was scoffing. You look fine. But why are you going out in the first place?

“Okay, I’ll take that as a yes,” she said, grabbing her purse. “I won’t be long, promise. Just meeting Amber, Ayaka, Albedo, and Kazuha for coffee and shopping.”

At the mention of their names, Scaramouche’s ears twitched. So, you’re meeting them again? The ones who make you smile like that.

Lumine knelt in front of him, running a hand over his soft fur. “Be good while I’m gone, okay? Don’t cause too much trouble.”

He nudged her hand with his head, pretending to be the perfect little house cat, though his insides churned with frustration. Watching her leave—even for a few hours—was becoming harder than he cared to admit.

---

The café was a cozy little spot nestled on a bustling street corner. Its large windows let in streams of sunlight, and the air smelled of freshly brewed coffee and baked goods.

Amber waved enthusiastically from their table near the back. “Lumine! Over here!”

Lumine smiled brightly and made her way over. Albedo was already seated, quietly sipping an espresso while Kazuha leaned back in his chair, his expression serene as always. Ayaka greeted her with a polite smile, sliding a menu her way.

“You made it!” Amber said, pulling Lumine into a quick hug. “We were starting to think your homework buried you alive.”

“Close,” Lumine joked, laughing as she took a seat. “But Kuni kept me sane.”

“Your cat again?” Kazuha asked, his tone curious. “You’ve been talking about him a lot lately.”

Lumine shrugged, her cheeks flushing faintly. “What can I say? He’s good company. He even helped me get through a massive assignment last night.”

Amber grinned. “Sounds like you’ve got a real-life emotional support pet.”

Albedo raised an eyebrow. “Unusual for a cat. They’re typically more independent and aloof.”

“Not Kuni,” Lumine said, smiling softly. “He’s different.”

---

As the conversation flowed, they caught up on each other’s lives, laughing and sharing stories. Amber animatedly recounted her latest hiking adventure, while Ayaka shared news about an upcoming family event. Albedo mentioned an interesting experiment he’d been working on, and Kazuha spoke poetically about a recent poem he had written, earning an affectionate eye-roll from Amber.

Lumine felt a warmth she hadn’t experienced in a long time. Being with her friends reminded her that she wasn’t alone, even when life felt overwhelming.

---

After finishing their coffee, the group decided to wander through the nearby shopping district. Lumine found herself being pulled into various stores—Amber pointing out quirky items, Ayaka admiring delicate jewelry, and Kazuha pausing to appreciate the artful designs of handmade goods.

At one point, Lumine stopped in front of a pet shop window. Her eyes lit up at the sight of the playful kittens inside.

“They’re adorable,” she murmured, her thoughts immediately drifting to Kuni.

Amber nudged her playfully. “Careful, or you’ll end up with another cat.”

Lumine laughed. “I think one is enough for now.”

But as they walked away, a small part of her wondered what Kuni would think if she brought home a playmate for him.

---

When they finally decided to call it a day, the sun was beginning to set, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink.

“Thanks for today, guys,” Lumine said as they parted ways. “I really needed this.”

Amber grinned. “Anytime! Don’t let your cat have all your attention, okay?”

Lumine waved them off, her heart feeling lighter than it had in days.

---

Back at her apartment, Lumine pushed open the door to find Kuni sitting on the couch, his tail flicking lazily.

“I’m back,” she said, dropping her bags and kicking off her shoes.

Kuni leapt down, padding over to her with what could only be described as an accusatory look.

“Oh, don’t start,” Lumine said, scooping him up into her arms. “I wasn’t gone that long.”

He huffed softly, burying his face in her shoulder. Lumine laughed, stroking his fur. “Missed me, huh?”

If Scaramouche could speak, he would’ve denied it. But in her arms, feeling her warmth again, he couldn’t bring himself to care.

“Next time, I’ll bring you something,” she said, carrying him to the couch. “Maybe a toy or some treats. Would you like that?”

He nestled closer, his purring a quiet response.

As Lumine settled onto the couch with him, recounting her day in soft, soothing tones, Scaramouche realized something he couldn’t ignore.

He didn’t just want her to come back. He wanted her to stay. Always.