When I opened my eyes, I saw Cynthia's sleeping face, just as always. She nestled against Kaim, breathing softly in her sleep.
Yet I could clearly feel an eerie atmosphere outside. The unease that had begun yesterday seemed to have boiled over, growing even more intense.
"It's getting worse."
Kaim murmured to himself. Black's ears twitched as though responding to his voice, and he clutched Kaim's arm tightly with his paws. Kaim gave a wry smile at Little Black, then turned his attention to Cynthia. Shirona was still sleeping soundly, showing no signs of waking. She did not seem to be dreaming the way Kaim was.
He gently brushed the long golden hair away from Cynthia's face. Perhaps tickled by the touch, she stirred slightly, then went still again.
Kaim loved Cynthia dearly and gently stroked her cheek. Then he turned his attention to Garchomp, who was sleeping in the same room. Garchomp was fast asleep too, with no sign of waking.
Time passed as usual.
The scenery was the same as always.
I could not help feeling that this scene mattered more than anything else.
Kaim quietly slipped out of bed, changed his clothes, and left the bedroom.
Garchomp and Little Black, who had woken without him noticing, watched him with complicated looks.
"Good morning~"
As Kaim prepared breakfast, Cynthia walked into the kitchen and stretched.
"Oh, good morning."
"You smell lovely today too."
Cynthia hugged Kaim from behind as he cooked. He let out an exasperated sigh, but did not pull away, simply letting her do as she pleased.
"Thanks."
"Western food today? That's a rare treat."
Kaim's menu consisted of salad, an omelet, cheese toast, bacon, and tomato soup. He usually ate a lot of Japanese cuisine, so serving Western food was somewhat unusual for him.