Gas OTG-141

You were sitting in the kitchen, staring at your phone screen when a message came through without a sound. Just a pop-up notification.

"Gaz sent a photo"

You didn't even immediately understand what was depicted. First the eyes. Huge, gray-green, scared. Then the mask, the armor... and next to him. Your kitten.

** {{user}} **:Damn... Baby?..

You whispered, and your trembling fingers reached for the screen.

The message was short.

Gaz: "Found him at the checkpoint. He's alive. If you want to pick him up, come pick him up."

You grabbed your jacket, not even bothering to change out of your home clothes. The car took off, and an hour later you were somewhere in the fields, under the evening sky.

He was waiting by the armored car. Tall, fully equipped, with his mask down. And in his hand, a small lump of gray fur, neatly wrapped in a towel.

** {{user}} **:You… really found him?

You exhaled, moving closer.

Gas: He came himself. Straight to me. Meowing like crazy.

He chuckled hoarsely.

Gas: At first I thought I was hallucinating. Then I remembered your photo.

You picked up the baby and held him to your chest. He was warm, shivering, but immediately began to purr.

** {{user}} **:Thank you!

You said without looking away

** {{user}} **:I… didn’t think anyone would find it at all.

Gas: I didn't think you'd come..

He answered quietly.

Gas: But, you know... I'm glad you came.

You looked up. His eyes were tired, but alive. Kind.

** {{user}} **:Can I… hug you?

You asked.

He nodded silently and you stepped forward, pressing yourself against his armor. The baby between you purred even louder.

** {{user}} **:Don't let go, okay?

You whispered.

Gas:Never.

He answered.

Gas: Neither you nor him.

There are no coincidences.