A Happy Mother

Seeing Xinhai return home, Zigzagoon excitedly rose onto its hind legs and planted both front paws on his chest. The powerful impact made Xinhai take half a step back before steadying himself.

They enthusiastically rubbed their head against Xinhai's chin and chest, their agile, powerful tail wagging madly, almost leaving an afterimage. A joyful, choked whimper rumbled from their throat, as if telling him how much they had missed him during their long separation.

"All right, all right, Zigzagoon. I know you missed me. Aren't I back now?" Xinhai laughed as their nuzzling tickled him. One hand steadied them to keep them from falling, while the other vigorously ruffled the fur on their head, savoring this wholehearted welcome.

Meanwhile, Eevee in Xinhai's arms was startled by Zigzagoon's fierce Presence the instant they pounced.

"Eevee! Σ(°△°|||)︴"

With a short cry, their tiny body instantly became a streak of white light as they nimbly leaped onto Xinhai's shoulder, clinging tightly to his collar. Still shaken, they looked down at the overly enthusiastic "big guy," their little chest rising and falling faintly.

If they had been any slower just now, they might have been caught up in that enthusiastic "bear hug."

"Gardevoir~" Gardevoir floated nearby, elegantly smiling at the heartwarming sight as she greeted this family member through Telepathy.

"Zigzagoon! Zigzagoon!" Zigzagoon greeted Gardevoir as well, then looked back at Xinhai, their tail still wagging nonstop.

Xinhai finally managed to calm the excited Zigzagoon down a little, but they still stuck close to his legs, rubbing their head against him and refusing to leave his side.

Xinhai smiled helplessly and continued stroking their head. "Zigzagoon, it looks like you've been doing well at home. You're still as energetic as ever."

Just then, the door clicked open from inside, leaving a narrow gap.

Apparently