The blue profile of death

"Do I need to get the napkins lest any tears be shed?" He joked, setting the desserts and drinks on a table. He approached you and crouched near you and the little cat. "So cute indeed"

The kitten must've felt skittish, because the moment Phainon crouched down, he. immediately darted away under a table, still having those glowy yellow eyes glued to Phainon.

You gasped dramatically and Phainon pouted childishly.

"Nooo, come back... I'm not scary..."

"Apparently, you are."

"Don't say that..."

He tried approaching again, stretching his hand forward a respectable proximity under the table the cat was hiding under for him to familirise himself with Phainon.

....he ran away again.

Phainon sulked and you patted his shoulder in mock comfort.

"There, there, maybe you're just big and scary like that. It was probably intimidated."

"Cats must hate me" He declared like the dramatic man he is.

"Oh hush, don't be a baby" You teased, standing up. "How about we eat first and then play, maybe the cats will approach then."

He reluctantly looked over towards the curtain where the kitten had ran off behind. Then he nodded.

"Fine, only because you say so"

"I didn't know I was a voice of authority in your head."

He didn't comment on that.

You both went over and sat down by the table he had left the pastries and such on. Your eyes stayed on the chocolate cake, not noticing how Phainon was looking at you.

"...How much was this...?" You asked, lifting your gaze to look at him. He didnt like the sound of where you were going with this. And it showed on his face.

"My treat, dearest [Name]" He reminded you and you felt guilty for having him pay for you (and flustered, he sounded way to charming for his own good when he said that). You wanted to protest, until you felt something against your leg. Your eyes trailed down and landed on a calico cat nuzzling against your leg affectionately.

He wins this time, because the cat was just too cute to ignore. (The debts to him were in fact piling up, and were not as cute, hence why you were able to ignore them.)

"Look!"

He leans to the side to look under the table at the cat. He watched as you petted it with gleeful happiness. You wanted to squeal.

"Isn't she so cute?"

"Yeah, she is."

He wasn't looking at the cat at all, but you were too busy to give it any thought at all. He was looking at you. You didn't acknowledge how distantly longing his voice sounded.

(...)

Phainon had become distracted with a very lazily relaxed cat on one of the cushions near the windowsill. You two had finished your desserts and were now just playing with the cats.

What you found was that many of the energetic cats weren't so keen on playing with you two, probably intimidated by the strangers coming to visit. After all, the café was relatively new; they haven't gotten used to the routine.

But this ragdoll cat certainly enjoyed his company, purring with much enjoyment to his petting.

"Finally found one you didn't have to bribe with treats?" You walked up to him, the tabby kitten from earlier in your arms. You hadn't meant to pick it up, but it climbed into your lap as soon as you picked up one of the toys earlier and now wouldn't let go.

Phainon took offense to your question.

"Just because it's true, doesn't mean you can say it." He muttered, averting his eyes to the kitten in your arms. "What about this little one? No longer feeling scared?"

"He just attached himself to me without my permission when I picked up the toy earlier..."

That made Phainon laugh with amusement.

"It's love at second sight."

"It's only love and second sight because you ruined the first sight!"

"You wound me, [Name], don't say such hurtful things." He put his hand over his chest in an exaggerated manner.

"Good, you deserve it, I could've been besties with this kitty if it wasn't for you."

He snorted and then took a deep breath before his expression became a hint more serious.

"Hey, [Name]? Can I tell you something?"

You noticed the change of demeanor and commented,

"What's gotten you so serious, hm?"

He smiled weakly and before he had the chance to speak, his phone vibrated in his pocket, indicating a call. A flicker of annoyance crossed his usually relaxed face before he fished his phone out from his pocket.

He noticed his battery, seeing how low it was. But it'd gnaw at him if he didn't answer this call, as much as it killed the mood.

"Sorry... I have to take this..." He said, voice dropping slightly. You felt a tinge of disappointment, but just hummed in understanding.

He stepped away, exiting the room of cats into the corridor, leaving you with the cats and a bunch of questions from what he had to say.

You looked around to find something else to do in the meantime. The toybox seemed to be calling your name. Was that another cat behind it?

Meanwhile...

"Goddamn you Mydei, I was about to confess!" He whisper-yelled into the phone, which caused Mydei to scoff.

"I'll be quick, you can go back to making out after."

"...You sound like Cyrene when you say that."

"She's right when she says those things, anyway, I have important things to discuss with you." Mydei sounded vaguely annoyed but he did let out a brief laugh before saying that.

"...Fine, be quick, my phone will die any minute now..." Phainon stated, glancing at his battery percentage before holding the phone back against his ear.

"What was [Name]'s surname?"

"What?" Phainon was dumbfounded.

"Her surname, Phainon, do you know it?" Mydei's irritation seemed to only increase, given that the line could be cut off at any moment.

"It's [Surname], what do you need it for?" Phainon spoke and he felt something strange in his chest. "...do you know her or something?"

"Then I guess my suspicions are true, listen, I think your date might be cut short because–"

He stopped hearing Mydei's voice and he could've sworn his soul shattered for a moment.

"Because?" His voice was quiet before raising. "Mydei? Mydeimos?!"

Phainon looked at his phone screen frantically, only to find that the battery had indeed, as he feared – completely ran out. So many questions flooded the gates of his mind and yet he couldn't coherently piece together why Mydei would need to know your surname. Or why your date was being cut short.

He hadn't realized how long he had stood in silence in the empty corridor. You must've been waiting for him. His heart was racing and he needed to calm down.

Everything is okay.

Nothing felt okay.

Why did he sense an impending separation?

He walked back to the room with the cats and saw a glimpse of you. A wave of calm washed over him as he watched you play with one of the cats using one of those bird dangling toys.

The little tabby kitten was eagerly trying to catch the bundle of feathers, failing as you lifted it out of his reach.

"You're back" You said, and Phainon felt a crack in his heart at the distracted sound of your voice. And his expression didn't hide it. Perhaps it was his imagination though. "Is something wrong?"

"Nothing... [Name]... nothing" He replied, eyes drifting down to the kitty, wishing he could be as oblivious and carefree as it was at the moment, just playing with you.

"I'm sorry, Mydei needed to know something"

"It's alright, don't apologize" You smiled at him and it did relieve some of the ache in his chest. "Oh, do you wanna try?"

He looked at the toy you held forward and before he could even make a decision, the cat had caught the bird on the string, clawing at it."

"Oh no..." You spoke theatrically in mock sadness. "He caught it..."

Phainon exhaled a weary laugh before taking the stick from you.

"Let me have a go then."

(...)

"It feels like we were there forever." You said, eyes on the darkening sky, watching the streetlights gradually flicker on.

The sun was beyond setting, and you two had just left the café for a walk. The streets were relatively empty, save for a few people. Perhaps this side of town wasn't so popular.

"It does, doesn't it?" Phainon replied, voice quiet to match yours. "Winter is approaching... it gets dark so much earlier."

"Yeah"

Silence embraced as you idly walked down the road without much intention other than enjoying each other's presence.

"I'm kinda thirsty..." You mumbled, and Phainon tilted his head to look at you. There was a brief look of pondering in his eyes before be spoke.

"Well, there's a boba store just a block away, I think, should be open." He suggested and your eyes lit up. "We can pre-order some and then just pick it up."

"Really?" You asked, eyes widening and he gave a positive nod alongside a smile.

"Though, I'll have to use your phone... since mine died" He said, sheepish, averting his eyes. He felt embarrassed, for some reason he couldn't quite point out.

You didn't think much of it, pulling your phone out and asking for the website and whatnot. He gave the information and both of your walking paces slowed down as you typed. He made sure to keep his eyes on where you were walking, so that you don't walk into something or someone.

He leaned closer when you found the website and neither of you noticed how you abruptly stopped walking. And neither did either of you acknowledge how his arm had found itself over your shoulders, guiding you through the websites' instructions.

But you did after like two seconds, feeling his warm proximity and it made your head spin.

'He's so close...'

Oh how cruel this was on your heart.

He pulled away and you felt disappointment when he did. You looked at his face and didn't see a hint of realization at how close he had been. You were in a trance as you stared.

"We are order number 336." He said, reading off your screen and it snapped you our of your trance to look back at the number displayed on your phone.

"Have you been there before?" You asked him as you two started walking again.

"Yeah, a lot actually – believe it or not, Khaslana loves boba." Your eyes widened at his words and he fondly continued speaking. "He often makes me or Reaver order for him because he's quite busy these days and never goes to central town."

"Oh? What does he do?"

"He goes to the ice rink a lot... he's a professional figure skater, another reason why he quit the whole streaming thing." Phainon explained and you just felt more and more confused.

"Huh... I never would've guessed..." You muttered. "That sounds impressive."

"It does, doesn't it?"

You reached the end of the block and saw crowds forming outside a store and you had a sneaking suspicion that was your destination because of course it was.

"It's quite crowded..." Phainon mumbled next to you, not looking too happy to see them. "How about we sit down and wait it out?"

You didn't have any complaints about that so you agreed.

"Sure."

(...)

When the crowd finally, finally died down, Phainon looked back and stood up. You did the same.

"Our order is still being made..." You muttered, eyes on your screen. His gaze softened and he was about to reply when you heard something distantly erupt.

"Fireworks!" A kid yelled from the side and you both looked up towards the sky behind a building and indeed, there were fireworks.

"Must be a celebration" Phainon mused and you felt entranced by the pretty sight on the unexpected occasion.

"So pretty..."

He turned his head to look at you, a small smile curling on his lips.

"How about this, you stay out here watching the fireworks, I'll go inside and wait for our drinks?" He suggested and you eagerly agreed, wanting to continue watching the pretty sight. "If I may have your phone to show your order though..."

"Yeah, yeah, of course" You handed your phone over without a second thought.

"I'll try to be quick, don't miss me too much."

"I won't, don't worry"

"Oh I've been beaten by pretty explosions in the sky"

You laughed and he was about to go away when he stopped. He remembered something all of a sudden.

"Oh, and [Name]?" His hands landed on your shoulders, eyes intently on you.

"Y-yes?" Damn your stutter...

"I have something important to tell you after, okay?"

You were stunned, confused. Mostly confused, because why did he look so intense. Like he had so much more to say to you.

"...sure?"

He let go immediately and waved a temporary bye. You watched him enter the less crowded boba shop before forcing your eyes back on to the fireworks and sitting back down on the bench.

But all you could think about was his words.

He had something important to say. Anticipation was making your heart race, so much so that you couldn't focus on the fireworks at all. So much so, that you lost focus and didn't notice someone approaching you.

"[Name]."

You almost died on the spot when you recognized that voice. Immediately, you stood up, looking at the figure approaching the bench from behind.

"I was looking for you."

You stared your brother in the eyes, those cruel eyes the same color as yours. Those eyes with malicious intent.

"What are you doing here?" You asked him, weary and ready to run.

"Mom asked me to fetch you, she has someone she wants you to meet." He calmly spoke and you stepped back when he got closer. "Let's go."

"No."

He looked slightly irked when you defiantly gave your answer. But the calm facade he so meticulous upheld all the time veiled it. He stretched his hand forward.

"Come now, [Name], don't be difficult."

"Fuck you and go die in a pit."

He let out a scoff and it almost sounded like a brief laugh of amusement. His eyes rolled, a shit-eating grin on his disgusting face.

"[Name], we are going, mom is the one asking for you."

He stepped closer again and you backed off.

"I don't want to! I'm here with my friend..."

"I don't care, I'm not asking you, [Name], this is not a request, I'm telling you."

"Disrespectfully, eat shit and die."

You were getting on his nerves. You knew that. Being difficult with him was one thing at home, but in public, he couldn't do as he wished, and that surely pissed him off.

Not like he ever raised his hand on you ever. But you weren't hopeful enough to think that wouldn't change.

And then his smile dropped and he advanced forward in haste, harshly grasping your upper arm with force..

You really jinxed yourself with that one.

"We are going home, and you won't like what will happen if you don't listen to me." He raised his voice, but not too loud. Whilst the street was empty, he couldn't risk it.

"Let go of me! At least let me say goodbye to my friend!" You struggled but unfortunately his stronger stature made it harder to break free. You were glaring at him and you wanted to punch his face in so, so badly. What a selfish bastard he was.

He only stared, holding you in place to prevent your futile struggles.

"Shut up, [Name]." He said with a low voice.

"But wait! He has my–"

"I said shut up, [Name]."

And you immediately deflated, silenced by the volume and harshness of his tone. His expression wasn't anything specific, but for whatever reason, you couldn't pinpoint exactly what about it terrified you so. Was it the tone? Was it the unexpectancy of it? Was it because it was the first time he had been riled up enough to lash out? You didn't know.

"Good, let's go. Mom said she isn't happy you were fired from that cafe, given its status..." He pulled you along down the street and all you could do was look down as he led you away. Your brother was speaking but all you could think about was one thing.

All you could think about was Phainon.

In the meantime...

Phainon exited the shop after the long wait, eyes searching in the dark for the bench you had been situated at. He was holding your drinks, your phone tucked away in his jacket pocket. The lamp post illuminated the bench, and yet he saw no sign of you.

He blinked once, twice.

"[Name]...?" He quietly spoke, immediately dropping the milk teas and rushing over to the bench as he looked around in a panicked frenzy.

He looked around the empty street. It was completely dead now, barely any people to be found. He called your name again, and he must've sounded insane. But he didn't care. He couldn't care. He didn't know where you had gone.

"Fuck..."

His second instinct was to take his phone out, but instead it was just yours. And it ringing.

He picked up the call without a second thought once he saw the contact name. Despair was clouding, his heart in a panic. All he wanted was for you to be safe.

"Dan Heng... I'm sorry, it's me, Phainon."

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Synopsis:[Name] finds a phone number conveniently scribbled on the locker room wall labelled as "Unemployment Hotline" after she's fired from her job. What she didn't know was that this was the number of her favorite streamer, Phainon, mainly known as Khaslana.

A/N: who needs therapy~ (ignores the multiple hands being raised). I had fun writing this chapter hehehe. The cat cafe scene was inspired by my own experience at one <333 Oh "Seperation", the panic youve caused <333

Taglist (closed): @be4rzy @pearlescentwonderland @lunavixia @usagiarchive @ravinee @tamikahoshiko @greenfurret @luphyllum @fuhrasloves @sinbehavior @shinjuuz @junoms @koi-chairowo @theseustimes @needmoresparkle @rhyzoma @kaelysian @ghostlysyntaxed @firefliesoul-owo @thebasicbword @swivi @ttalgi @whatifisaidimsogay @rafayelsbeloveds-blog @violetisreadinghush @speedycoffeedelight @maysaetta @aethenawhosp @ibyobi @auroratumbles @jnkuna @dreamyhazx @momoniq @tamashithe2nd @lechocolotte @jjaeyuns @kiopanxp @aloudice @bunsluvly @celestialzdiviner @http-peachie @the-dumber-scaramouche @redheadedsilly @d4hli4s @sunsethw4 @aixaingela 

But the million-dollar-question is: what is Phainon's love language? He's like an all-rounder when it comes to boyfriend-ing, to the point that if this were a competition, you would've been forced to forfeit by now. But you can feel your brain beginning to overheat every time you think about it — he never misses an opportunity to compliment you (and what's worse is that it's so genuine you couldn't even call it flirting); your skin has learned to recognize the temperature and feel of his hands from the countless times he caresses and holds you; he replies before the little "delivered" can appear under your text bubble, and always makes time for you, no matter the time of the day; and he gets you flowers and other gifts every time he comes to pick you up for one of your dates.

And from time to time, you find yourself questioning all of it. It feels like nothing you do could ever compare, so really, how did you get so lucky?

Truth be told, what you call selflessness, Phainon calls it selfishness.

You really were looking forward to him coming over, but he greeted you at your doorstep with slumped shoulders and a weary smile. His face finds the crook of your neck like clockwork once he leans forward and into your arms, nosing at your pulse and breathing you in. In no time, Phainon's sat on your bed in one of your oversized band tee-shirts and a pair of spare sweatpants he had left at your place.

His voice is raspier and quieter than usual, and you don't think he even realizes. And somehow, he still finds the strength to flash you a smile, eyes wrinkling at the corners, as he compliments your appearance and asks about your day. You continue to talk, waiting (and half-hoping) for him to nod off mid-sentence but he never does.

You're not sure when exactly it started, but his arms circle around your waist faster than you can process any of it. Phainon places slow, lazy kisses to the skin of your exposed shoulder, deliberately tugging the sleeve down to free some more. The sound of your heartbeat is deafening and it thrums in you ears the more his hands knead at the fat of your bare thighs.

Phainon hums low under his breath, right against your ear. "This is okay, right?" he has the courage to ask like he hadn't been devouring you with his eyes five minutes before all this. Like he can't feel the warmth of your core from where his hands rest on the waistband of your shorts. You try to protest (although weakly), insisting that he should rest, that he doesn't have to. But the truth is Phainon knows very well he doesn't. Your underwear was perfectly dry before he started tracing shapes onto your waist and back and hips.

All of it was calculated. He wanted you like this.

So, he ignores you, focusing on the way your chest stutters, your back pressing rhythmically against his torso, as he slides your shorts and panties down your thighs. Phainon's palms caress your inner thighs, digging into the warm skin of your ass once you try to shy away from the cold air hitting your glistening folds.

"Shh," he whispers before kissing your cheek, like he isn't actively spreading you open. "It's okay, I got you. I'll make you feel so good."

That's what he always says, and so far he's never lied, which is what makes you forget that it's exactly how you end you in this position every. single. time. That's just what Phainon does, selfish as he is — he lures you into his snap trap like a carnivorous plant, and only lets you go once your brain has melted into one big puddle and the only letters of the alphabet you can remember are the ones that spell his name.

He continues to peck your face, neck, and shoulder as he circles your twitchy clit with his middle finger, his others fingers keeping your lips spread. Your breath fans his cheek and the back of your head rests against his shoulder, lolling lightly from side to side with every breathless whimper that leaves your mouth. He doesn't even seem to mind the way your nails dig into his forearms, holding onto them for dear life every time her runs the pad of his finger on the underside of your clitoral glans.

Because Phainon knows how tremendously sensitive that part is, and he loves watching the muscles of your inner thighs tense as you let out a long whine.

"I know, I know," he coos.

Your boyfriend's tone nears condescendance, yet even if you were able to form a coherent thought at the moment, you wouldn't care less. When your eyes finally flutter open, you find him already looking down at you.

"There she is, my pretty girl. Does it feel good, sweetheart?" he asks sweetly, spreading your lips a bit more to play with your bud with two fingers now. He tuts before you can nod. "Use your words, baby. And keep those gorgeous eyes open for me."

Every time that you think that warm puddle in your lower stomach is about to spill all over the sheets, Phainon slows down, neglecting your clit to tease and circle at your entrance without ever dipping his fingers in. You huff, both from the subconscious frustration of being denied yet another time, and from exertion. Your boyfriend simply chuckles, nuzzling against your cheek before tilting your chin to the side. You're barely aware of the slimy dampness coating the underside of your jaw and staining Phainon's fingers as he leans down to peck your lips. Once, twice, before he gently parts them with his tongue, humming into your mouth.

"I know, pretty," he breathes, "I'm sorry. Just a bit more, okay? Can you take a bit more for me?"

Like he doesn't know the answer to that. And still you nod dumbly with a whine, chasing his tongue as his thumb gently caresses your cheek.

"Good. You're doing so good, baby. Almost there."

But Phainon isn't cruel, truly. All things considered, he does view himself as selfish for putting you in this position every time, but he just loves you that much. He only wants to make you feel good, believe him.

And as promised, he picks up the pace again, circling your clit furiously — if his touch weren't so tender and loving. Your heels dig into the mattress, and you fight hard to keep your legs from flailing. Phainon's there to hold you down, though, and trust me, he doesn't struggle one bit while doing it, even kissing your jaw softly as a reminder to keep your eyes open.

When your sounds become more frequent, your ribcage expanding against his arms, he finally slides one finger in, curling right where you can feel the pressure building.

"Go ahead, pretty. Cum all over my fingers."

That does it. Your back arches against him and you grip his forearms hard enough for the skin to redden, mouth falling open as the dam breaks. Phainon keeps going before gradually slowing down, and he kisses your face during the whole thing, murmuring praises and sweet words.

"There you go, sweetheart. You did so good."

"You have no idea how gorgeous you look when you let go."

"Look at that, made a pretty mess all over the sheets."

By the end of it, you're left a limbless, panting puddle against his chest — like all the other times. You can feel him press his lips against your shoulder, massaging your sore hips, your thighs still twitching as you come down from your high.

Phainon, contrary to you, seems to be doing just fine, all traces of exhaustion from when he first arrived completely gone from his handsome features. He grins down at you, and it's so sickeningly sweet you can't even be mad. Lazily blinking and half-conscious, you watch as he licks his fingers clean like it's the sweetest frosting he's ever tasted.

"Hey, there." He says it like he didn't just tie your synapses into a ribbon, like the light doesn't catch in the remaining droplets of release coating his wrist. "How are you feeling? Everything alright?"

And what can you say? (Figure of speech. Your brain can't even signal your lips to move, at the moment.) Phainon manœuvres you into a more comfortable position, completely ignoring the way he strains against his pants.

He doesn't ask for more. He doesn't even hint at it, because that's just the way your boyfriend is, and it's maddeningly confusing. But until you figure out what can render a man so stupidly selfless (answer: it's love), you can be certain that Phainon will be there to take care of you and hold you until you fall asleep.

Click. Click. Click.

Inside your bedroom, specifically situated in your own sheets, you release a breath that you’ve been holding. You stare in intrigue at the publication material currently displayed on your PC screen: on a bright, bold shade of yellow, it says, Volunteer Dog Walkers needed! accompanied with a vector of an adorable golden retriever biting a leash. Or, well, supposedly holding the leash.

You tap thrice on your mousepad.

Warmth spreads in your chest as you browse through endearing photos of happy dogs. Happy dogs of different kinds who were, presumably, walked by previous volunteers. Numerous supporters flooded the post—their traction wasn’t bad. They had lots of heart reactions. Comments. Some were calling how lovely the dogs were, and how great their company was, to the point that they’d ‘volunteer’ again.

This, of course, is excellent for someone like you. 

It’s considered a green light in your eyes if the internet has given Walk Your Dog, a rating of 4 to 5 stars for their service, because this means this is the real deal, and that there’s nothing to worry about. 

So, how did you get into this position again?

Well, simply put! There were things still yet to be explored. You don’t know a lot about said world yet ( the world seems so big now and full of possibilities ), and since you’re stepping into adulthood, it wouldn’t hurt to get to know more about it.

And besides, this is most definitely not motivated by your friends who have their own side quests. This is definitely not because you feel like you have to prove to anyone that there’s something going on with your life, and that you’re not just stuck on doing your academic duties and responsibilities. 

Castorice joined a book club. Mydei and his bros enrolled in a cake baking class. Cipher gets often invited to trivia nights. 

And you? What’s going on with your life?

You tap on your mousepad again.

I’m going to volunteer. And I’m gonna walk a dog, you’ll say. And it’s going to be great!

You are most definitely not peer pressured. You repeat again. You are definitely not proving something. This is what people at your age do. Do activities. Discover more hobbies. Learn about what the world has to offer.

The site loads, and you read what the webpage reveals to you.

Walk Your Dog

We are Okhema’s #1 Dog Walking Service.

We are open 24/7.

Drama and Scam Free environment!

Browse and enjoy our dog walking experiences!

In Okhema Activity Park, you find yourself sitting on a bench under a tree. 

It’s hot as hell, but you’re grateful for the wind every now and then. And besides, the weather is not going to ruin your mood today—because you’re hella excited to walk a damn cute dog, and not just because you’ll also get to post it on social media, for your friends to see that you are not just occupied by a thesis, or your internship, because that’s just boring.

You are practicing balancing your life well before graduation, and that’s good.

Because it means you’re not behind. And because there’s more to life than cramming academic work.

As you wait, you momentarily recall the past few nights’ events:

In walkyourdog.com, you surely took your time in choosing your options after signing up. There were plenty of super cute dogs to walk, and in all honesty, you really wanted to walk all of them.  

But you didn’t have that much money ( student budget is waving ), and it really wasn’t recommended by the agency. They have strict rules, which is understandable, and according to them, only special volunteers can get to have that choice. You’re not entirely sure of what they mean by that, but you figured that it was probably reserved for regular volunteers, or volunteers who have done them a great favor. So first timers were not part of the equation.

What you see is what you get. Always! 

Feel free to contact our email, [email protected] or our number, 000-0355-0336 for additional inquiries and bookings.

OUR DOGS

100% REAL and RECENT PICTURE GUARANTEED! 

Seriously, there were a lot of super cute dogs, but most of them were already booked. It amazed you that their service was so top tier that the dogs were not available. This could only mean that despite how cruel the world can be, there was still hope for humanity—because they were willing to make an effort. They wanted the dogs to be happy through volunteerism.

And this really inspires you. 

The community is awesome.

So even though most of the dogs were already booked, you got lucky—because you landed on one. 

Phainon was the dog’s name when your mouse hovered on his panel. You swooned when you saw the pup’s pictures—Phainon was an adorable fluffy samoyed, and you could already envision walking the cloud. You’d seriously take lots of photos when you get your hands on him, and you’d definitely bury your face on the dog’s snowy fur. 

You also plan to record the dog’s woofs, because aeons, samoyeds were seriously just so CUTE. Well. At least that’s what Astraltok shows you. Some of them may be a bit too exaggerated or perfect looking, but nothing could go wrong when it comes to dogs.

So, yeah. Phainon. The fluffy samoyed. Walk Your Dog claimed that Phainon was a great companion, and that he’d make sure to make your time with him worthwhile. They also emphasized that being with him would surely be unforgettable, and this excited you even more. 

You felt so proud of yourself that time. You were going to have so much fun with the dog, and you were definitely not going to brag about it on social media.

Phainon may be a new dog, but he’s more than ready to show off his wild side. Make sure not to be fooled by his eyes, because this pup knows how to get what he wants.

Or maybe you’re into that? Come, book him now. Let that fantasy turn into reality! 

Phainon the Samoyed had a weird description, sure, but you still progressed in volunteering. You also made note of the additional information that was also in the dog’s profile, like his age being 21, and his measurements, but you ascertained it to the service being creative. Perhaps he was 21 in dog years, and he was 5’11. . . well, if the pup probably stood in two feet. Kind of terrifying to think about, but samoyeds were big dogs, weren’t they?

Anywho, you weren’t too particular with the details. All that matters is that you’re going to walk and bond with a super cute fluffy dog today, and you’ll be broadcasting in Astralgram, because you have a life. All that matters is you’re doing something good for the pet community, and that you’re doing pretty well as a member of the society. 

Ping! Your phone flashes you a notification, and you suppress your squeals. Phainon is about to arrive soon! 💕

Actually, no, you can’t hide your squealing. You’re very much thrilled by what you’re about to do in the next few minutes, because you’re finally going to meet the fluffiest ball ever. You’re gonna kneel to its level, squish its super duper cute face, bask in its presence, before skipping away to walk it for two damn hours. 

It’s gonna be one hell of a time for you, and you’ve mentally patted your back for such a good job. 

“Hi, good morning! Are you—” A breathy, yet deep voice calls for your name, and you pause. “The one who booked for Walk Your Dog?”

You turn around, already beaming and expecting the white samoyed. “Yes—!“ Only to not see said white samoyed anywhere, but a gorgeous, gorgeous tall man with white, fluffy hair and the bluest eyes you’ve ever seen. A gorgeous, gorgeous man who apparently hides a lot of beef under that tight, compression shirt, and you gulp. Then, you shake your head, focusing in on the present. What the? Who is this? Is this a staff from the service? “Um. Sorry. Where’s the dog?”

The man blinks, puzzled. You don’t know why he’s also confused, and for some reason, alerts inside your head start to go off. 

Wait a second.

He rubs the back of his head. “Oh! Well. You see, I’m the dog.” White, no—snowy, pointed ears perk up from his tuffs, and your lips part at the sight. Wait. You catch an even fluffier tail behind him wag, and this time, your jaw drops. To the floor. “I’m Phainon. I’ll be the samoyed you’ll be walking today!”

Your knees give in.

And just as planned, you did kneel in front of the samoyed.

Again, you don’t know a lot about the world. No one does. No one is that perfect.

So can anyone really blame you for being stupid?

Well, Cipher would surely laugh. Aunt Tribios and Aglaea did give you both a life lesson once, that not everything you see is what they seem, and they’ve never been more right. How did you miss it? How can you be so dense?

Now everything’s making sense. 

“You see, there’s this thing called hiding in plain sight,” Aglaea said before, when she was stitching a torn up shirt of Cipher’s. “There may be one person, or a group of people who would utilize this strategy. You both ought to be careful. Make sure to stay vigilant at all times. If your gut tells you that there’s something off, then there’s something off.”

Well, how were you supposed to know that Walk Your Dog was a secret escort service in Okhema!?

“No, you’re not just using your brain,” is what Mydei will say if he learns about this. Then Castorice will admonish him and console you. But you have no plans of telling them that your plan of proving to the universe that you have something going on backfired, because you scored a date. Or a hookup. Holy shit.

“W-Wait, Miss, what happened?! Why are you on the ground?” You’re spiraling so much that you haven’t registered it yet that the samoyed hybrid also knelt down with you. That the samoyed is trying his best how to handle you. Everything’s making sense. Oh my god. The fucking site. The fucking site!

The fucking site that had so much weird ass descriptions. 

100% REAL and RECENT PICTURE GUARANTEED.  

A great companion, and that he’d make sure to make your time with him worthwhile.

Phainon may be a new rescue dog, but he’s more than ready to show off his wild side. Make sure not to be fooled by his eyes, because this pup knows how to get what he wants.

Unforgettable.

Or maybe you’re into that? Come, book him now. Let that fantasy turn into reality! 

21. 

Oh my god, his age. It’s not in dog years. It’s actually his fucking age, and—you gape at him. Horrified, by this epiphany. 

5’11. He’s fucking 5’11.

Yeah, humanity was a mistake. 

Humanity had a bunch of weirdos. 

“Miss?”

You feel your heart cry out. No fucking way he looks this adorable too because fuck, dog hybrids are seriously one of a kind because you’re endeared even though you’re severely weirded out by this whole situation. He has his ears flopped, and tail drooped down.

What a wonderful hybrid. He seems earnest in his worrying for you, with his hands fumbling around your form, not knowing where to touch. 

You swallow, before gripping his wrists. Wow, he’s warm, and he’s solid. He’s real. And he’s gorgeous. Fuck, you think you’re about to fall into some sort of rabbit hole.

He freezes, before blinking again. His eyes are on you, and you swallow again, panicking.

“I’m sorry, there must’ve been a HUGE misunderstanding. Huge,” you tell him, with lips quivering. You don’t know why you said huge again, but you blame it on him for having larger hands. ( If he held yours, you’re sure it’ll be concealed by how large they are. ) People who are passing by in Okhema Activity Park witness your pathetic attempts of repenting, and you wish for the soil to devour you whole. But you must face the consequences of your actions, ‘cause that’s just how life works. “Please, forget that this happened. And I know what it’s like for you guys, and—well, I haven’t experienced it, but I’ve heard stories, so just. Take my money. Phainon.”

You even said his name, and you watch how his eyes go a little wide at that, as if stunned. As if he’s fascinated by what had just transpired. You don’t know why he’s making that face, but you assume that this case you have with him is a first for him.

His ears perk up, and his tail wags briefly, before he returns to the expression he had before. 

What the hell.

His ears lower back down, and he purses his lips.

“. . .So, we’re not going for a walk?”

You feel as if a heavy boulder was thrown against your back. He’s CONCERNED about the fucking WALK!?

You’ve really never felt more stupid in your life.

As of the moment, to at least prove to the world that you’re doing well as a member of society, you’re not crossing the pedestrian lane even though there were no cars passing around. 

The stoplight is red.

And on your side, is a panting, giddy pure bred samoyed beside you, while holding his leash.

Walk Your Dog said, the pup knows how to get what he wants. 

You’ve explained to him briefly that you genuinely thought that this was a literal dog walking service, hence the immediate cancellation of this session. You thought that Phainon the Samoyed would laugh at you, judge you for being such a goddamn idiot, before taking his money away. 

But no such thing happened. Instead, he merely laughed. It was so dreamy you weren’t going to lie, you had to stop yourself from clutching your chest. Then, the understanding hybrid remarked, “If that’s the case, allow yourself to walk me still. I just couldn’t take your money without doing anything.”

To which you retorted, “I’m giving you an opportunity, pup. To earn free money.”

He just grinned with his eyes closed. “And I’m also giving you an opportunity to get to know each other. Or to get to know about the service. Wouldn’t that be fun? Well, that is, if you’re interested. So, what do you say?”

A normal person would’ve just rejected the offer. And insist for the hybrid to take the money because you unintentionally wasted his time. And yet you relented, because again, Walk Your Dog explicitly said that Phainon knows how to get what he wants.

You couldn’t believe you were so weak.

Plus, you did say that it wouldn’t hurt to learn more about the world.

“Please? I promise, I’m gonna make it worth your while.”

How familiar, you almost lurched.

It didn’t help that he used the scrunched eyebrows and almost shimmering blue eyes combo, too.

Fucking dogs, you swear.

So when you said fine, you ignored the fact how your heart performed somersaults when he beamed. His perky white ears made an appearance, and his fluffy white tail wagged again behind him. 

You raised your hand before he can even speak, “But I have one request!! Um, can you turn into a samoyed? Please?” 

It was already so weird, but thank the aeons Phainon did.

He laughed again. Why was his laugh hot? Damn it. “Sure! If that’s what the client wants.”

More like what he wants, ‘no? You suppose Phainon is in his most comfortable form because he’s clearly enjoying the walk with his tongue out. It’s a cute sight, really—and you are resisting the urge to take a damn photo for your dignity, but you fear you'll collapse soon.

Also, you’ve walked Phainon. Dogs like walks. And dogs like exploring and meeting new people. 

But for some reason, even though people coo at Phainon to get his attention, and he gives them in return, Phainon more so keeps on looking at you, or fully fixates on you.

Must be part of the dog package or something, you ponder quietly when you dip your head down, and meet his adorable fluffy face while you saunter the streets together. His tail wags cheerfully, and your hand twitches. Oh god, control yourself, girl. That’s a hybrid. What you’re going to do is weird. Odd. Strange. And whatever synonym you can think of.

After 30 mins of walking, you’ve decided to take a breather in another bench in Okhema Activity Park. You recall how embarrassed you got when you were strapping the leash on Phainon’s collar in his dog form, because again, that’s a hybrid—he turns into a human, don’t ever forget, and it’s already so weird that you’re putting a collar on a species that also turns into  human, but this is how this service worked, apparently. 

( Also, it’s amazing how the sun mark on his neck can also be seen in his full dog form, but through his fur. )

Speaking of the samoyed, he was just gazing at you again, and you don’t know what he’s thinking about. Not until he bonks your knee with his head, and you lift a brow questioningly.

You nervously ask, “W–What?” 

Another bonk. 

“What, Phainon? Do you want to—to pee, or something?”

If he did, he already did. And you have an inkling that Phainon is not that gross. He has decorum still. Most likely he’ll be hiding somewhere else just to flush it all out. 

Then, Phainon whines. Be still, your heart. Oh my god. Why is he so cute? And why are you so mean? There’s a real, pure samoyed looking at you with the saddest eyes ever. You’re evil for not doing anything.

“I—I don’t know what you want,” you admit to him. “If you want something, say it. You can’t talk in that form?”

He huffs. Must’ve been a yes. And since he can’t talk, Phainon’s fluffy head searches for your hand. His heated breath brushes over your skin, and before you know it, he gives you a lick.

“Woah, hey! Why are you—“

Phainon whines again, and it hits you. You gawk at him for a moment, still contemplating if you’re going to proceed with what you have to do. Then Phainon rests his chin on your knee, begging, and there’s an arrow that strikes you from behind.

Aeons.

“A-ah,” you stammer, before a shaky hand elevates, shadowing a bit of the dog’s face. “My bad. I just thought it’ll be odd for me to pet you, considering the situation—“

Another whine. How many more whines will it get? You don’t know if you’re seriously going to crash out because you’re anxious by the fast course of events, but also charmed at the same time because Phainon’s so cute and you don’t want to mess things up. This is the full truth.

“Okay, okay. Fine. Sure. I’m—I’m gonna pet you. Just hold still, okay?”

And it’s not a groundbreaking climax. He complies, and you slowly rest your palm on top of his head, testing the water. Seconds pass, and wow—wow. It’s fluffier than you can ever imagine. It is like a cloud. He is like a fluffball.

Phainon leans onto your touch, and you watch how his tail wags side by side again. In those Walk Your Dog marketing materials, you’ve gotten a rough idea of what dogs look like when they’re happy.

And Phainon seems thoroughly overjoyed by the petting.

You shatter. You just can’t handle it anymore. Another hand raises, and you, in full force, start to squish the samoyed’s face, irrevocably captivated. You have been won over by the samoyed.

Luckily for you, Phainon didn’t mind.

30 minutes of walking flew by—and again, you’re sitting on a bench, but this time, you have the samoyed beside you. Residents of Okhema have stolen pictures, and even asked for your permission prior to this. You let them because you don’t own Phainon. 

A few minutes ago, the samoyed quietly. . . yet freely cuddled itself close to you. He pressed his snout on your arm, and then on your neck. It was a weird sensation but you yelped when his wet nose touched your cheek.

Two eyes blinked when you took a look at him. As if he was examining your reactions. As if he was finding out what you were about to do next.

Again, it was weird ( you have no idea how much you’ve used the word weird ), but you sighed, and carefully leaned back against him anyway. Soon enough, your head was resting on the pup’s side, and your eyes were slightly blocked by snow fur.

Then, Phainon gives a deep woof, and you close your eyes.

You hear the thumpthumpthump, but pay it no mind.

It will be over soon. You did not waste those two hours. The dog insisted the walks. You have photos and videos to share now, too.

“Did you have fun today?”

You instantly detach yourself away from him after that. He’s back to his hybrid human self. Feeling your cheeks heating up, you nod bashfully. “Um—y-yeah!” Then, you narrow your eyes at him. “Can you also give me a head’s up at least when you’re transforming back?”

Phainon snickers, “I’m sorry. You seemed so content that I didn’t want to disturb you.” Then, he smiles lightly. “Which means you did, since you did not even notice me transforming back?”

Now your face gets even hotter. “What. No!” Phainon’s ears are up again, and his tail is wagging, again. Fuck. “I’m not a weirdo.”

Phainon just laughs again, “Sure.”

“I am not!”

“Mm,” He hums, and your heart skips when that smile remains on his lips. 

You avert your gaze away, not knowing how to feel about that.

There’s a few minutes of silence. To avoid feeling awkward, you listen to the sounds inside Okhema Activity Park. The leaves rustling from above. The kids’ voices as they run around the grass. The bells ringing from passing bikes. 

And Phainon’s gentle breathing beside you.

“You smell really good, you know,” he says, and of course, you’re taken aback.

“B-bwuh? What?”

You stare at him as if he grew two heads. You’re waiting for the I’m just kidding, but his expression hasn’t changed a bit. In fact, he’s genuine.

“I said you smell good. You smell nice.”

Now who’s calling me weird? Or maybe because this is just how hybrids are. You don’t know their biology. “I don’t know what to feel about that.”

The amused Phainon smiles wider. “Trust me, it’s a compliment.”

“To be honest I’m a bit freaked out.”

“Understandable.”

You look away again. You want to tell him to turn into a samoyed so this won’t be awkward, because you’re intimidated by his size, because does he know that his pecs are about to pop out from his compression shirt, or or that he’s shining so brightly you can’t look away, or or —

“It’s still so comical how you thought that this was a literal dog walking service,” Phainon suddenly brings up, and you glance at him. “Walk Your Dog is clever with their strategy to attract their potential clients or target audience. At first glance, it may seem innocent at the surface, not until you dig deeper. Did you really not realize that we’re not all what we seem?”

“I get it. There’s no need to rub it in, Phainon,” you pout at him, and you miss his ears twitch. “There’s still a lot of things that I don’t know about the world, okay?”

Phainon releases another chuckle. “Okay. I won’t hold it against you.”

…

There are numerous thumps as the samoyed’s tail continuously wags behind him. “But seriously, how come you’ve never realized?”

You groan, “Phainon!”

@ intergalacticbaseballer

Walkyourdog services is actually 10/10 btw

@ evernight

What?? You actually tried it? 

@ intergalacticbaseballer

Yeah

It was fun

@ permansorterrae

I actually don’t want to ask the details.

Feel free not to share with us.

@ intergalacticbaseballer

Did you know that booking a 2 hour session is a quickie?

@ permansorterrae

No. And I really don’t want to know.

@ evernight

But I want to!

Tell us more LOL

@ intergalacticbaseballer

WELL THEN

@ permansorterrae

Come on. 

@ intergalacticbaseballer

If a hybrid dog thinks that you smell good, it’s an indication that you’re a potential mate

So if you keep on booking them for example, there’s a very high chance that the hybrid may terminate their employment to pursue said potential mate

Which is, to be perfectly honest, absolute cinema

I’d love to watch that drama

@ evernight

That’s actually really professional of them 

At least there are no work violations

@ intergalacticbaseballer

Right right!

Though imagine the mess if the hybrid continued to work under work your dog??? Super messy

Anyway

I have another info to share abt them

@ permansorterrae

Why do you know so much about the hybrids and their service?

@ intergalacticbaseballer

Got to know during a 12 hour session, baby! 

🤪

@ permansorterrae

We really didn’t need to know about that.

@ intergalacticbaseballer

But now you do.

My friend, if you ever try out Walk Your Dog,

@ permansorterrae

I promise you, I won’t.

@ intergalacticbaseballer

If the hybrid keeps on biting and biting you, that also means they want you as their mate

They’re claiming you, marking you as theirs

Hybrids don’t normally do that with their clients

But they will if they see a potential mate, or if the client is into that

@ permansorterrae

Again, why do we need to know this?

@ evernight

Because I’m curious!

“So.” Tonight, you are facing Cipher’s shit-eating grin in the coffee shop where you guys regularly meet after each semester. Sipping her iced drink, she says, “Someone’s been active. You having fun walking a dog these days, huh?”

Your heart pounds. It’s no secret that you’ve been posting about the samoyed recently. You’ve shared in Astralgram how you’ve been spending time with the pup every two weeks, or sometimes even every week, when you’re missing him. You go on walks, or even eat out together—unfortunately your pup is a big eater, it’s concerning sometimes.

You won’t forget that one day when he asked if he could take a bite of your burger, and he literally devoured the whole thing. His tail was wagging so happily despite you admonishing him for the biggest crime he ever committed. 

But still, your friends do not know.

They do not know the truth.

“Yeah. Walking the dog is actually helping me get into shape. I walk him every two hours whenever I have him.” You tell them, and you swirl your preferred order with your teaspoon.

Castorice sends you a wonderful smile. “That sounds wonderful. If you wouldn’t mind, maybe we could join you one day when you walk the samoyed?”

Oh, no. That’s not possible. Over your dead body. They cannot know. Even though you and Phainon plan to act all normal, these three friends of yours will eventually realize what’s all underneath it.

But still, remain calm. Remain composed. Like Mydei, who has just his eyes shut tight, and arms crossed, though he’s evidently listening.

“S–sure, one day, one day,” You laugh a little. “But I’ll have to warn you—he’s a bit of a biter. Nowadays, he can’t stop biting me for some reason. It doesn’t hurt. And it doesn’t bleed. I feel like it’s more of a playful bite, if anything.”

“He could probably still be thinking that he’s a puppy,” Cipher explains with a shrug. “All dogs have that phase. They still think that they’re like young babies.”

An image of Phainon, in his full samoyed form, or even in his hybrid human form, making himself comfortable in your lap, or laying on top of you, appears in your mind. That couldn’t be further than the truth.

“Phainon, you’re so heavy! Stop it!”

He just laughs, and ignores you anyway. It’s already too late for you to push him away because he found the perfect spot to melt against you. He sighs in delight.

“Good night.”

“What?! No, Phainon—get off!”

“Haha, call my name again?”

You were suffocating so overwhelmed that day because of a gorgeous slash beefy hybrid samoyed man on top of you, and yet you wouldn’t have it any other way.

And when the topic shifts to a new one, you give the floor to Cipher and Castorice as they share updates from their new adventures. It is not long before Mydei elbows you lightly on the arm, and you look up at him, curious.

“What?”

“You’re glowing.”

Your face steams. “Wha-?”

“Glowing.” He narrows his eyes at you. “Is walking the dog the only thing happening in your life right now?”

Your task of letting the world know that you have something going on is successful, but you also have to bear the outcomes that will be gradually thrown your way.