CH 7

Masaya talked about work all the time and refused to make eye contact with Riku. Eventually, the meeting was over and Riku was ready to leave. Unlike that day, Masaya walked Riku to the door. I had hoped that Masaya would stop Riku this time. Riku put on his shoes, bowed and said, “Sorry to bother you.”

Masaya only looked at Riku, who turned his back to us, his face contorted as if he were about to cry, and said nothing. So I squealed instead.

Riku, don’t go!

Masaya, hold Riku back!

This time, do yourself a favor and tell him how you feel!

Lately I seem to have a weakened trachea, and just squealing makes it hard to breathe. I have a hard time breathing properly. Riku opened the door, stepped out, and looked back at me with concern.

“Sora. Stop being so annoying.”

Masaya told me in an irritated voice, but I didn’t stop. I didn’t stop. Because I am helpless and all I can do is purr. I am just a cat no matter how hard I try. But it’s too painful to be good.

The meow becomes a mew, and eventually a hissing, weird sound. My mouth was full of bubbles. Just before my eyes went black, I thought I heard two voices.

“Sora!”