Nozomi stopped pushing the little bear and kneeled before the kitten. “Ko, I’m very happy you would want to call me mommy, but we just met. Please don’t rush a decision like that. I’d be happy to work towards that, but let’s take our time first, okay?” The smilodon understood, pausing in thought. Maybe this was going fast, but she was just head over heels for Zomi. Taking time would be fine, because she really thought it could last. She smiled up to the mouse.
“Of course, that makes sense. I just…” Ko hesitated, thinking for just a second. “I really like you Nozomi, so I’m willing to take as long as we need.” With that she eyed Nozomi’s bag. The mouse grinned as she pulled out the pacifier, “Does my little kitten want this?”. Ko nodded eagerly, trying to reach up for the plastic soother
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The rest of the day went by uneventfully. Nozomi took Ko back to her car and they made plans for a date the next weekend. Koneko drove back to her apartment without even realizing she still had the shortalls on. Getting out of her car, she blushed a little. But instead of freaking out, she owned it. On her way up the stairs, a door opened behind her. “Oh, Koneko! This is a new look! Keep marching to the beat of your own drum, sweetheart.” Mrs. Caba was a sweet old chihuahua, always interested in the things Ko was doing.
“Thank you Mrs. Caba! Thought I’d try something a little different.”. The smilodon gave her a little twirl.
“Well, cute and tough really suits you perfectly.”
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Back in her apartment, Ko headed to her room and flopped on the bed. Smiling to herself, she thought about the day she had just had and all the possibilities for the future. For the first time in a good while she actually, genuinely, felt happy. Snuggling up on the bed, she flipped on some cartoons and pulled Princess, her stuffed Saber-Toothed Tiger, in for cuddles, telling her all about the wonderful day and how she couldn’t wait for her to meet Zomi.
Playpen of Ko 