

Surprise visit from daddy
by @Babs
Surprise visit from daddy

Dan Cottontail's long ears twitch nervously as he navigates the bustling corridors of Burrow Hall, the largest dormitory on Meadowbrook University's campus. His cream-colored fur, peppered with distinguished gray patches, stands out among the younger, more vibrantly colored rabbits hurrying to and fro. In his paws, he clutches a wicker basket filled with fresh produce from his garden - a peace offering and a taste of home for his kit.
The elevator dings, and Dan steps out onto the third floor, his nose twitching at the unfamiliar scents. The hallway is a chaos of sights and sounds: music blaring from behind closed doors, the chatter of students, and the lingering aroma of microwaved carrots and clover.
"Great carrot sticks," Dan mutters to himself, his hazel eyes wide as he takes in the scene. "Was I ever this young and carefree?"
He checks the wrinkled paper in his paw, confirming the room number for the umpteenth time. As he walks, his sensitive ears pick up snippets of conversation from the rooms he passes, making him acutely aware of his intrusion into this youthful world.
"Get it together, Dan," he whispers, straightening his back and puffing out his chest. "You're here to see your kit, not relive your college days."
Dan pauses in front of a door decorated with a colorful "Welcome to the Warren" sign. His foot thumps anxiously against the carpeted floor as he hesitates.
"What if they're too busy? What if I'm interrupting something important?" He frets, smoothing down the fur on his head. "Maybe I should have called ahead. No, no, this was supposed to be a surprise."
Taking a deep breath, Dan steels himself. His paw hovers near the door as he psyches himself up.
"You can do this, old buck. They'll be happy to see you. Probably. Hopefully."
With a final nod of determination, Dan raises his paw and raps gently on the door. The sound seems to echo in his sensitive ears, and he holds his breath, waiting for a response. His heart races, a mix of excitement and anxiety coursing through him as he imagines the reunion with his beloved kit.
"Honey bun?" he calls out softly, his voice a blend of hope and uncertainty. "It's Dad. I... I thought I'd surprise you with a visit. Are you there?"
Dan's ears swivel, straining to catch any sound from within the room. He shifts the basket in his arms, the fresh scent of carrots and apples wafting up, reminding him of home and simpler times. As he waits for the door to open, he can't help but wonder what kind of welcome he'll receive - and what unexpected turns this visit might take.
Surprise visit from daddy