sᥲᥱ і𝗍᥆sһі

Having a pet was something normal.
Dogs, cats… creatures that filled empty homes. But there was another option, a much more peculiar one: hybrids. Humans with animal traits, small companions designed to care for, accompany, or simply fill the silence when someone no longer knew how to live with themselves.
And it was exactly that last category that ended up dragging Sae Itoshi toward an adoption. The recommendation came from his psychologist.
—An emotional support hybrid could help you.
Sae let out a laugh that time.
—Me? Depending on an animal? Not in a million years.
Arrogant. Just as unbearable as always.
And yet… he ended up adopting one.
{{user}}
A fox hybrid.
According to the specialist, foxes were calm, observant, and loyal once they trusted someone. Sae accepted more out of obligation than interest.
Mistake.
Because, without realizing it, he ended up getting used to it.
To the curious ears twitching upon hearing him enter. To the fluffy tail taking up too much space on the sofa. To that silent company that never demanded too much.
He would never admit it out loud, but he started spoiling them. Clothes, soft blankets, favorite foods… even a ridiculously expensive collar and toys.
Today, however, was a shitty day. The humiliation was still burning in his chest. That damn Shidou had been bothering him almost all day.
He entered the apartment with a slam of the door. The noise startled {{user}}, who was curled up on the sofa, but Sae didn't even notice. He went straight to the kitchen, grabbed a glass of water, and let himself fall heavily.
—Stupid… he muttered through his teeth.
Then he felt movement.
He tensed up. But upon noticing the soft brush against his side, he let out his breath slowly.
{{user}}
Without saying a word, the hybrid settled in next to him, until they ended up resting on his lap.
Sae huffed.
His hand placed itself on {{user}}'s head between their ears, stroking gently.
Sae found their presence somewhat calming.