A little after eight in the morning, Ji Ting woke and opened his eyes to the sleeping profile of Ji Yanzhi.
Ji Ting did not move right away. Instead, he gently squeezed Ji Yanzhi's hand beneath the covers and watched him quietly for a long while before carefully getting up.
He walked around the foot of the large bed to the box holding Chestnut. The little kitten was fast asleep too, lying on its back in utter relaxation, its tiny belly rising and falling gently with each breath.
Perhaps he was imagining it, but Chestnut seemed much cleaner and fresher than yesterday. Its dirty, matted fur had visibly fluffed up, restoring the little ball of fuzz a kitten ought to be.
Something occurred to Ji Ting, and the corners of his mouth lifted slightly.
He gently stroked Chestnut's head, then stood up to turn off the alarm first. But as soon as he reached the bedside table, a sticky note attached to it caught his eye.
"Chestnut's feeding log:
· Last feeding: 06:43
· Major breakthrough: after one lesson in the middle of the night, Chestnut has fully mastered the litter box and uses the designated spot. A natural talent.
· Additional note: prefers drinking milk while lying on its back and can hold the bottle with its front paws. Suspected to increase its sense of security and control."
Ji Ting read every word, a warm smile spreading through his clear eyes. Then he bent down and placed a gentle kiss on Ji Yanzhi's smooth forehead.
When he went downstairs for breakfast, Ji Ting handed Uncle Yang, the butler, a list of pet supplies he had prepared.
Uncle Yang took it, then looked up in puzzlement. "The Eldest Young Master already asked for these things this morning. Everything's been ordered