The cat was already circling his feet like a smug little king, tail swaying with entitlement.
Luca stood in front of the counter, holding the scoop of dry food like it had personally offended him.
"You know," he muttered, tearing open the pouch of wet food, "this thing doesn't even like me."
From the couch, Noel's voice floated in—calm, unhurried. "That's not true."
Luca gave him a look over his shoulder. "Oh really? Then why does he hiss every time I walk by?"
"Maybe he senses your attitude," Noel said, lips tugging slightly upward.
"Why am I the one doing this?" Luca groaned.
Noel leaned against the doorframe, arms folded. "Because you decided to test my patience all day."
"I brought you breakfast," Luca muttered, pouring the food into the bowl with exaggerated care. "That should've canceled all sins."
Noel's mouth curved faintly. "You also gave someone else a free forehead massage."
Luca turned sharply, glaring. "She gave me—you know what? Never mind."
