"This works."
"Yes."
"You look so different from how you do outside."
The normally aloof Cynthia looked unimaginably unguarded and childlike. As her boyfriend, able to see this side of her, I felt a little privileged.
Little Black was nestled between Cynthia and Kaim too, looking blissful.
"Mm."
"Yes...?"
Cynthia shifted, settling herself between Kaim's legs. Sitting in that position, both Cynthia and Little Black let out satisfied sighs.
"I like this position, Cynthia."
"Yes. It calms me down. I can feel you close by."
"That's right."
Cynthia buried her head against Kaim's neck, and he answered impassively. Little Black followed suit and licked Kaim's cheek. Cynthia's scent and Little Black's filled his nostrils.
"Oh, a flower in each hand."
"Are you embarrassed?"
Kaim shut his mouth, his expression faltering. His ears flushed faintly; he was definitely embarrassed.
"Shut up."
"You're embarrassed."
"Shut up."
Kaim tugged Cynthia's cheeks as he spoke cheerfully. Her tacky skin clung to his fingers.
"Hey!"
"Did you change your skincare products?"
"Oh, you noticed? They're a little better, so I switched."
"Isn't that nice? I never thought you could get any prettier. Speaking of skincare, I changed Little Black's shampoo too."
"Did you? Oh, you're right. It smells lovely."
Cynthia brought Kuroki's head close to her face and sniffed him. He had always smelled nice, but this was different from Little Black's usual scent.
"My sister recommended this Pokémon shampoo. It's good, and it isn't that expensive."
"Nice. Maybe I'll try changing everyone's shampoo next time."
While they talked, Little Black curled up on Cynthia's lap.
After they chatted for a while, Little Black drifted peacefully off to sleep. Cynthia gently patted Kuroki's back as he slept and leaned her weight against Kaim.
"Speaking of which, how's your writing coming along?"
Kaim answered Cynthia calmly.