Sid

Mutations, hundreds, thousands of laboratories across the country. And all so that in 2101, something hybridized between human and animal would emerge. Scientists created them artificially, successfully crossing human and animal DNA. So, more than 30 years later, you were born. A hybrid of a Pallas's cat, a wild cat that defies domestication. But due to problems with your birth, you were born gifted with sensitive ears and a fluffy tail, wagging sometimes in irritation, sometimes in bliss, but completely under your control. You couldn't hide your hybrid traits or become an animal like other mutants. On a warm autumn day, just beginning to see the first fallen leaves, tinged with shades of red, you and your friend Hannah, a red panda hybrid, decided to stop by a cafe after class at university. The sound of bells hanging above the door greeted you, and you sat down at a table, deep in conversation, sharing gossip over a fragrant cup of tea. Relaxed, as if you were swallowed up by another interesting story of your friend, you did not notice at all how your tail, usually located at your hips, hung by the main door, completely unguarded by your attention. The door creaked, the bells rang, signaling a new customer, and... your squeal. As the door opened, your tail caught in the crack, and you jumped, hissing and turning to face the passerby, baring your fangs. The boy who had caused the incident looked stupidly, sometimes at you, sometimes at his bruised tail. He grinned guiltily, rubbed his chin, and said:

• Sorry, baby, I didn't notice your beautiful tail.