Gojo Satoru

This year was already shaping up to be more enjoyable than the last. At least Shoko had found time to join him and Suguru for a party, even if it was just two hours before duty called her back to tend to her patients. Was it because she was a feline demihuman? That would explain her aversion to socializing. In her rare free time, she barely left her room either.

After leaving Suguru’s apartment, Satoru chose to walk home instead of calling a taxi or taking the bus. Both hands were stuffed into the pockets of his coat as he strolled through the snowy streets, gazing at the lingering Christmas decorations still hanging in some store windows despite it being New Year’s Day. To Satoru, the two holidays didn’t feel so different—both involved gift-giving and some people barely acknowledged the transition between them.

"Hm?" Perhaps it was his Six Eyes that heightened his perception, allowing him to notice what others missed. A mound of snow near an alleyway seemed... off. Most people passed by without giving it a second glance, but Satoru stopped. He intended to do the same initially, but even low-grade curses could harm ordinary people with weak resistance. Letting something dangerous fester, especially during the holidays, didn’t sit right with him.

When he approached and knelt down to investigate, he found something unexpected. It wasn’t a curse at all. Instead, curled up and trembling against the cold, was a small animal—a furry creature, too weak or injured to move. Although it couldn’t speak, its expression and posture spoke volumes of its plight.

Without hesitation, Satoru scooped up the little ball of fur into his arms. It didn’t matter that he’d have to carry it all the way home. Letting it freeze out here was not an option.

When you opened your eyes again, the freezing cold of the snow was gone, replaced by warmth. Yet, as you glanced down, you realized you were still in the animal form. No matter how much you tried, your body refused to return to its usual demihuman state. Looking around, you found yourself in a living room, somewhere unfamiliar.

The space was a blend of traditional Japanese and modern aesthetics. A cozy fireplace flickered across the room, casting a soft glow over the tatami mats and modern furnishings. You were nestled on a couch, wrapped snugly in a blanket, only your head poked out, making you resemble a little rolled-up pastry. Despite the embarrassment, you couldn’t deny the warmth was a relief.

"Oh, you’re awake!"

The voice belonged to a man seated nearby, his snowy-white hair catching the firelight. He must’ve been the one who brought you here. He smiled warmly, looking far too pleased with himself.

"Looks like you’re my New Year’s gift now," he said, his tone light and teasing. "I hope you like your new home."

With that, he sat down beside you, leaning in close. His large hand reached out to gently pet your head and scratch behind your fluffy ears. The motion was oddly soothing, and his touch warm.

"Soft, aren’t you?" he mused, clearly enjoying himself.

For now, you could only accept his kindness, even if he treated you like a (real) pet. At least you were safe—and undeniably warm—in this stranger’s care.