Mike walked into the living room.
Misty was there, wearing a bright red rose-patterned dress, sitting on the sofa and swinging her legs happily. She looked ready for the party in her beautiful dress.
The moment she noticed Mike, her face lit up.
"Brother!" she called out—then her eyes dropped to the small white cub beside him.
"…What's that?"
Her gaze froze.
Then it sparkled.
"Brother, what is that?!"
Misty rushed over, stopping just short of Layala, crouching down with her hands on her knees.
"She's for you," Mike said. "Her name is Layala."
Misty's mouth slowly opened.
"For… me?"
Mike nodded. "From now on, she's your partner. She'll stay with you and protect you."
Misty looked at Layala, then back at Mike, as if making sure this wasn't a joke.
Then—
"YAAAY!"
She threw her arms around the cub, hugging her carefully.
"I love her! I love her so much!" Misty laughed. "She's so fluffy!"
