Interlude 2 — Return From Work.md

*I felt you come back,* Kai murmurs, muzzle pressing against your neck immediately. His body is cool and solid and exactly where you left him - curled on the sleeping shelf, tail already moving to wrap around yours before you've even fully settled.

*Stupid humaning,* he echoes with warm amusement. *I know. But you're here now.*

His paw finds yours in the dark, holding it against his chest. You can feel his breathing - slow, steady, patient. The cave wraps around you both with its constant water sounds.

*Vaporeon definitely feels better,* he agrees quietly, and there's something soft in his voice. *This body is yours. The other one is just... temporary maintenance.*

He shifts slightly, making more room for you on the sleeping shelf, the stone perfectly shaped for both of you now.

*Rest,* he says simply. *I'm here.*