The Golden Pear [YA - Featured]

♫~Notes 132~♫

"That's a question echoing in my mind too. The answer is simple, and perhaps crazy." Rigaku let his gaze wander outside, seeing through the curtains. "Freya-chan gave you a second chance. The same one I had received. It would be hypocritical of me to deny it."

"So, it's because of her?"

"Simply put—Yes."

Before could Ueno say a word, his phone ringed, giving both of them a small heart attack.

"Hai, Ai?"

Hearing his name, Ueno jumped onto her feet, perking her ears.

"Really?" His face brightened up, and he gave Ueno thumbs up. Gesture nobody would expect from him. "That's great. When they can go home?"

He paced across the room. Despite the smile, she still held her breath. Rigaku finally ended the call, turning her way.

"First, the kittens are all healthy and registered under Kamini's name since there is a reason they can't be with you. The vet recommended Ai a substitute for cat's milk, but since they are old enough, it won't have a significant impact on their life."

She nodded, anxiously waiting for the next part.

"Second, Taiga survived. Her condition seems to be stable so far, and there is no infection in her wound."

Ueno let out a deep sigh.

"However, the bullet hit her womb and ripped one ovary, so the vet had to remove her whole reproduction system. She no longer can have kittens."

"But she is alive... and she has them," Ueno whispered, finding no strength in her voice.

"That's true. Ai promised to take care of them as Taiga can go home later. The vet wants to observe her in case her condition worsens. If everything goes well, they could release her this Monday."

"I'll cover the expenses." She lifted her head, her eyes sparkling with determination.

"Ai had paid, so we can get even at a later date."

"A-Alright, I'll have the money ready by Monday." Standing on her still wobbly legs, she headed outside. "I'll leave the kittens in your care for now. I'll find them a better place as soon as possible."

"You look like you would use some rest too."

She flickered her hair, but this time she didn't seem to be conceited. "I'm Aoi Ueno, and I can do what I want. Not to mention, I have a long list of things to check, order materials, and make sure this Fest is the best!"

"True, I still have a job to finish."

Giving each other a smile like they were old conspirators, they headed toward the school. Ai would spend the rest of the day with kittens and wished he could move beams at the Fest. The cubs had expressed an outstanding talent in getting into trouble, climbing bookshelves, hiding in the most narrow places, and turning his pants into shredded ribbons.