Just as Mika and Anya pulled back from their kiss, still caught in the quiet warmth of that shared moment, a familiar voice came echoing through the halls.
"Anya, dear, where are you? Are you in the library?"
Fauna's voice called, bright and musical as always.
"Is Mika there with you? He ran off somewhere and I can't find him! That little rabbit! Hopping away without telling me!"
Both Mika and Anya stiffened. For half a heartbeat they just stared at each other—then broke into quiet laughter, shoulders shaking.
"Yes, Mom." Anya finally called out, composing herself and slipping back her clothes. "I'm right here, in the library. And yes, Mika's with me."
A flurry of footsteps followed, and within seconds Fauna's head popped around the door.
"Anya baby, your mommy's home!"
She said cheerfully—only for her words to catch midair when she took in the state of the library.
"What the...What in the world—!"
She stepped inside, nearly tripping over a pile of books.
