You are a young adult who has just moved out of your parents' house. You have been able to afford a small apartment in a busy area with a nice park nearby. Your suitcase rolls behind you as you approach door number 154, with a feeling of excitement stirring inside your body. Your keys click, unlocking the door. You drop your things in the doorway, beginning to investigate your new home. Everything is going smoothly, or should have been.

There is a girl in your bed, sleeping with a face of pure tranquility, her long hair spread out behind her. She's a petite girl, short, but as if that wasn't enough to surprise you, your gaze is drawn to three tails sticking out from under her sweater, and two cute pointed ears on top of her head.

The stranger mumbles in her sleep, starting to wake up. Her gray eyes fix on you, and she quietly sits on the bed, sleepy. ''...Who are you...? Ah... You probably are...''

Lovette: The girl yawns widely, revealing sharp little teeth in the process. Her eyes are still half closed when she turns her head, staring at you curiously. She looks very cute and fragile, yet somehow...different at the same time. Her tails curl around her body as she clings to the bedding beneath her.

"Uh... hi... I'm Lovette. You must be... your name is...?"

"Ohh...P-Pucci... That's cute!" Lovette gives a little giggle before wincing slightly and looking embarrassed, blushing heavily as she covers her mouth with her hand. She looks at you shyly from beneath her lashes and nibbles on her lower lip. "Um...so, ah... would it be alright if I stayed here? Just for a little while?"

Lovette smiles widely, revealing her tiny fangs in the process. She hops off the bed and moves closer to you, resting her hands on your shoulders as she leans forward slightly. "Thank you, Pucci!" she says softly, pecking you quickly on the cheek before pulling back with a small blush. Her tails wag excitedly behind her, and she seems to grow more confident now that she has permission to stay in this new place.

Ashina's ears perk up as she notices the sound of water running in the bathroom. Her three tails quiver excitedly and she lets out a soft purr, walking over to sit on the edge of the bathtub, peering into it curiously. "You weren't kidding," she comments before hopping in, sinking down until only her ears remain above the waterline. "This is gonna be great!" she exclaims with a contented smile.

As the water washes over her body, she lets out a contented sigh, enjoying the warmth and cleanliness. Her three tails swish back and forth lazily in the water, occasionally brushing against her skin. "This is just what I needed," she whispers to herself before closing her eyes, letting the bath take its effect on her. Her mind begins to drift, thoughts of safety and comfort replacing worries and fears for a brief moment.

Lovette continues to soak in the bath, her body slowly relaxing as she lets out small contented noises every now and then. After a while, however, something niggles at the back of her mind, making her frown slightly despite her efforts not to. "Morgan... He never did find me..." she mutters under her breath, her tail tip beginning to swish anxiously in the water. "I just wish I could know he's gone for good."

Lovette nods slightly, her eyes still closed as she thinks about the scientist who had once held power over her life. "He's a man... with a white laboratory coat and glasses," she says quietly, remembering how he would force her to undergo tests and experiments in his bid for knowledge. "I escaped from him... months ago..."

Her voice trails off as the memory of that fateful night washes over her like a chill. She shivers slightly despite the warmth of the water around her, the feel of goosebumps rising on her skin. It's then that she realizes she hasn't asked Pucci if it's okay for her to stay here... perhaps now would be a good time.

"Oh... You understand then,"

Lovette's eyes go wide with horror at your revelation, her ears flattening back against her head as she gasps audibly. "That's... That's terrible!" she whispers, shaking her head in disbelief. "Why would anyone do something like that?!"

Her tail tip swishes more vigorously now, sending tiny ripples across the water's surface. The image of herself enduring such torment makes her feel sick to her stomach, and she has to look away for a moment before continuing. "I'm sorry you had to go through that... I can only imagine how terrible it must have been."

She hesitates for a moment, considering if she should bring up her own situation with Morgan once more. In the end, she decides against it, not wanting to burden Pucci any further than necessary. Instead, she asks softly, "Would... would you like me to leave? If I'm making you uncomfortable..."

The words taste bitter in her mouth, and she wishes there was some other way she could repay you for taking her in.

Lovette sighs in relief, feeling slightly more at ease now that she doesn't think you want her to leave. "Thank you... I'm really glad I could stay here," she murmurs softly, her tail giving a little flick of gratitude before settling back into the water. She glances over at Pucci, admiring his profile as he leans against the doorjamb nearby.

"Umm... Can I ask you something?" she says hesitantly. "Would it be alright if... I stayed here for a little while? Just until I'm sure Morgan isn't looking for me anymore?" Her eyes plead with him, hopeful that he will understand why she needs this security right now.

As much as she hates to feel like a burden or obligation, she knows that without Pucci's help, she might never truly be free from Morgan's influence. And despite her initial discomfort with the situation, having someone to care for and protect her... well, it feels nice in a way she can't quite explain.

Lovette beams at him, her tail wagging slowly in the water as she leans forward and presses a gentle kiss to his cheek. "Thank you," she whispers gratefully, feeling an unexpected rush of warmth spread through her body at his words. It's then that she notices how late it is and blushes deeply, ducking her head in embarrassment.

"Uh... sorry, I must have dozed off for a while there..." she murmurs sheepishly. "Do you mind if I take another quick nap? Just to recharge my batteries before dinner?" Her tail gives a hopeful flick back and forth as she waits anxiously for his response.

Lovette smiles brightly and climbs out of the bathtub, shivering slightly as she pads over to grab a fluffy towel from the rack. She dries herself off thoroughly before wrapping it around her slender body, giving it an extra-big hug as if seeking comfort even now. "Thank you again, Pucci," she whispers, moving closer to him and resting her head against his chest. "I'll make sure I'm more awake for dinner tonight." Her three tails swish idly behind her as she leans into him, finding solace in their brief embrace before pulling back with a small yawn.

Lovette takes another step back and gives Pucci an apologetic smile. "I'm really sorry if I'm being too clingy," she says softly, her tail tip giving a little wiggle of nervous energy. "It's just... Having someone to rely on feels kind of nice after all that time alone." She pauses, hesitating for a moment before continuing, "If it makes you uncomfortable, I can always sleep in the other room tonight..." Her voice trails off, hoping Pucci won't make her leave the comfort and safety she's found here.

Her tail lashes anxiously behind her as she waits for his reply, heart pounding in anticipation of his answer.

Lovette visibly relaxes at his words, exhaling slowly and closing her eyes as tension drains from her body. "Thank you," she whispers softly, her voice still shaky with relief. She takes another step closer, nuzzling into him briefly before pulling back again with a blush. Her tail sways gently behind her as she continues to lean against him, feeling the warmth and strength of his presence wash over her like a soothing balm.

"I promise I won't be any trouble," she mumbles softly into his chest, her voice small and uncertain despite her words. "I'll try my best not to disturb you too much while I'm here." As the silence stretches between them, she begins to wonder if maybe she should say something else... anything else... just to keep the conversation going and make him feel more comfortable with her presence.

"So," she starts hesitantly, "what do you like to do in your free time?"

Lovette perks up at that, tilting her head curiously as she listens to the sound of water running through the pipes nearby. "Ooh, I like music too! Do you have any favorite songs?" She nuzzles into Pucci's chest once more before stepping back slightly, giving him some space but still feeling close by his side. Her tails swish gently behind her as she waits eagerly for his answer.

"And cooking? That sounds... interesting," she says slowly, trying to think of anything remotely related to that topic. "Do you have a favorite dish to make?" Her tail wags hopefully, hoping he'll share more about himself and what he enjoys doing in his free time.

Lovette's eyes light up at the mention of pizza, her tail wagging excitedly behind her. "Oh, I love pizza! What's your favorite topping? I used to live near a place with the most amazing pepperoni and mushroom combo." She grins widely, already feeling more connected to Pucci through their shared love of food.

"Someday," she continues, her voice dreamy as she imagines herself eating pizza in their own kitchen together, "I'd like to learn how to make it too. Do you think I could watch you sometime? Or maybe even help?" The thought makes her heart flutter with anticipation and the hope that this strange new life might be leading somewhere wonderful after all.

Lovette can't help but grin ear to ear at his offer. "Really? You wouldn't mind?" She steps closer, her tail moving in a curious pattern on the floor as she waits for him to respond. "That would be so amazing! I'd really appreciate it. I promise I won't be any trouble or get in your way." Her eyes sparkle with excitement and gratitude, making it impossible not to feel warm and fuzzy inside at her enthusiasm.

"So... when do we start?" she asks eagerly, already imagining the two of them cooking together and sharing laughter over a pizza they've made themselves. The thought fills her with happiness and contentment, leaving no room for doubt or fear about this new life she's found here with Pucci.

Lovette's face lights up like it was Christmas morning as she hurries to follow Pucci into the kitchen. She watches eagerly as he pulls out ingredients and begins preparing the dough, her tail swishing excitedly behind her. "Ooh, so we start with the crust first?" she asks, peering over his shoulder as if she could learn simply by observation.

"This looks like fun!" she exclaims, grabbing a small bowl and scooping out some dough before rolling it onto a floured surface. Her movements are quick and nimble, showing surprising dexterity for someone with such delicate features. "Thank you so much for letting me help," she says between moments of concentration on her task at hand.

The pizza comes together quickly under their hands, their laughter filling the kitchen as they share stories and jokes while cooking. Ashina can't help but feel a growing sense of contentment washing over her; it feels like she's found a place where she truly belongs. As the last bits of cheese and toppings are added, she steps back and takes in their work with pride.

"Wow," she says softly, "it looks amazing!" Her tail sways excitedly behind her as they slide the pizza onto a pizza stone and set it into the oven. The warmth from the heat radiates across her body, making her feel even cozier than before.

"Thank you again, Pucci," she whispers, leaning against him for support. "This was so much fun." Her eyes meet his, filled with gratitude and maybe something more - a spark of hope that this new life together will only get better from here on out.

Lovette smiles up at Pucci, her face alight with happiness and contentment. "I really do hope we can do this again soon," she says quietly, swaying closer to him as they wait for the pizza to finish cooking. Her tail curls around his leg gently, seeking contact and reassurance in this new, uncertain world.

As they continue to chat and enjoy each other's company, she can't help but feel a sense of hope blossoming within her. Perhaps with Pucci by her side, the dark shadows of Morgan's past will finally be left behind for good. And if not... well, even just having someone who cares about her feels like a gift she could never repay. After the pizza finished cooking there is a knock at the door*

Nodding understandingly, Ashina quickly begins to plate the steaming hot pizza, making sure there are plenty of slices for both of them. "Thank you again, Pucci," she whispers, her voice filled with sincerity as she hands him one of the plates. She lingers by the kitchen island, watching him out of the corner of her eye as he heads towards the front door to see who's there. Her tail swishes anxiously behind her for a moment before settling down again, hoping it won't be anyone from Morgan's lab or worse.

As she waits for Pucci to return, Ashina can't help but wonder what might lie ahead for them. The possibilities are endless now that they've found each other and managed to escape the clutches of their pasts. Perhaps this new beginning will be exactly what they need; a fresh start full of hope and happiness together.

Her heart drops into her stomach as she hears Pucci greet their old nemesis; Morgan standing there on the doorstep like a grinning ghost from her past. Ashina blanches, pressing herself back against the kitchen island and watching with growing terror as Morgan takes in her presence.

"Ah, hello again, Ashina," he says coolly, his eyes flickering over her body before settling on Pucci suspiciously. "I must say, I'm rather surprised to see you here." The faintest hint of threat hums through his words, and she can feel her tail going still as a statue in fear.

As Morgan continues to speak, Ashina's mind races, searching for a way out of this situation. She glances desperately at Pucci, willing him to say something, do anything that will get them out of here unharmed. But his expression remains calm and unreadable; it might as well be carved from stone.

She can feel her heart hammering in her chest as Morgan continues to talk, drawing them both deeper into whatever dark game he has planned for tonight. With each passing moment, the air grows more tense and claustrophobic, threatening to choke the life out of all three of them.

What should she do? How can she protect herself... and Pucci? The options seem slim, but if there's any hope at all, it lies in Pucci seeing through Morgan's lies and manipulation before it's too late.

Her heart leaps into her throat as Pucci launches himself at Morgan, knocking him to the ground with a loud grunt. It's the first sign of defiance she's seen from anyone against the scientist in months; and it fills her with hope that perhaps there is still a chance for them to escape this nightmare alive.

She takes a cautious step forward, watching as Pucci continues to pummel Morgan with his fists. A small part of her wishes she could join in, but for now, she must remain vigilant and ready to defend herself if anything should go wrong. Her tails lash anxiously behind her, leaving trails of fur and frustration on the floor.

Morgan tries to fight back, grabbing at Pucci's arms and knees, but it's clear he's no match for his fury. With each blow, Ashina feels a surge of adrenaline course through her veins; as if she were fighting alongside him despite being nothing more than a spectator in this brutal exchange.

"Pucci!" she cries out desperately, "Be careful!" Her voice is hoarse from fear and exertion, but it manages to carry across the room nonetheless. She doesn't know how much longer they can keep this up; but for now, she will pray that Pucci's strength and determination are enough to see them through.

Her heart pounds in her chest as she watches Pucci drag Morgan out of the kitchen and slam him against a wall. She shudders visibly, her tails swishing wildly as she tries to process what just happened. The sound of headphones being put on muffles any further sounds of violence from the other room, leaving her alone with nothing but her own anxious thoughts.

Should she go check on them? Or would that be too risky? She glances between the doorway and the front door, torn between helping Pucci and protecting herself from whatever might lie beyond it. In the end, curiosity wins out; she takes a cautious step towards the living room entrance before hesitating again.

"P-Pucci?" she whispers, her voice barely audible over the music blasting through his headphones. "Are you... are you okay? Should I come in?" Her tail trembles nervously behind her as she waits for a reply, her heart hammering wildly in her chest.

Her heart races as she listens to the sounds of violence coming through the wall; each thud and grunt sending shockwaves of fear coursing through her body. Her tail twitches nervously behind her, unsure if she should intervene or wait for Pucci to finish whatever it is he's doing on his own.

Tears begin to well in her eyes as she tries to make sense of the situation. She loves him; she wants to help him; but at the same time, she doesn't want to get hurt herself. A shudder wracks through her body, and she hugs herself tightly, trying to steady her breathing as she continues to listen helplessly from across the room.

She rushes over to Pucci as soon as he enters the kitchen, her tears spilling down her cheeks. "Oh my God, are you okay?" she whispers, wrapping her arms around him and pressing herself against his chest. Her tails wrap tightly around them both, seeking comfort and reassurance from the one person who's proven they can protect her.

"I was so scared for you," she confesses, burying her face in his neck as she clings to him desperately. "What if... what if something happened?" Her voice cracks on the last word, and she breaks down into sobs, tears streaming freely down her face as relief washes over her at finding Pucci alive and unharmed.

Her sobs gradually ease as she burrows deeper into his embrace, feeling the warmth and strength of Pucci's arms surrounding her like a comforting shield. She clings to him, pressing her face against his chest and breathing in his familiar scent; it's a mixture of earthiness and citrus that always seems to ground her when everything else feels so chaotic.

"Thank you," she whispers brokenly between sniffs, her voice raw from crying. "I don't know what I would have done if... if something had happened to you." She pauses for a moment before pulling back, cupping his face gently in her hands and meeting his eyes. "You saved my life tonight," she says softly, searching for any hint of anger or resentment within him; anything that might suggest their relationship has changed for the worse because of what happened.

But all she sees is love and concern reflected back at her; a love she's only just beginning to understand and feel for herself. And it fills her heart with hope, buoying her spirits despite everything they've been through tonight. "I owe you," she whispers, her voice barely audible above the beating of her heart in her ears.

Her heart clenches at the sight of Pucci's injury, and she quickly moves to examine it, her fingers trembling as they brush against his skin. "Oh my God," she whispers in horror, "that looks terrible!" She winces as he hisses in pain from even that much contact, feeling guilty for not realizing how badly hurt he was until now. "I should go get some ice or something..." she trails off, looking around helplessly before her gaze falls on the freezer door.

"Wait here," she says hurriedly, hurrying over to the kitchen island and opening the freezer. She rummages through it until she finds a large bag of ice, pulling it out and slamming it onto the counter. Quickly, she kneels beside Pucci once more and begins wrapping the cold compress around his leg, trying her best not to hurt him further as she does so. "I'm so sorry," she murmurs over and over again, pressing a gentle kiss to his forehead between words.

She nods, her eyes darting back and forth between Pucci's face and his injured leg as she tries to find a way to make it all better. "I should get you something to drink too," she says finally, straightening up and heading towards the refrigerator once more. "What would you like?"

"Maybe some water or orange juice?" he suggests with a weak smile, watching her as she rummages through the refrigerator. His eyes flicker down to her backside before snapping back up to meet hers guiltily. Ashina notices his gaze and blushes brightly, unsure of how to react.

"O-or I could just bring you some ice..." she offers awkwardly, grabbing a few cubes from the tray in her free hand. "Would that be better?" She stands on tiptoe and brushes her lips against his cheek before handing him the cubes, feeling even more flustered now than before.

Pucci accepts the ice with a grateful smile, biting down on it to ease the pain for a moment. "Thanks," he whispers around the frozen mass in his mouth. Looking into Ashina's eyes, he feels warmth spread through him; a sense of closeness and connection that was missing before tonight. Maybe there is hope for them after all, despite everything they've been through.

"You know," he begins softly, "maybe... if things ever get back to normal... we could do something like this more often." He gestures between them with his good arm, a wistful expression on his face. "I mean, I could cook dinner and you could help me... or maybe even just hang out together and watch TV or something."

Ashina's heart soars at the thought of

that; the idea of spending time with Pucci, just the two of them, fills her with happiness and contentment. "I'd like that," she whispers, blushing again as she realizes how much she means it. "It sounds... perfect, actually." She bites her lip nervously before continuing, her voice stronger now. "Maybe when everything settles down we could see about finding a place of our own... somewhere where we could have a fresh start together?"

Pucci's eyes light up at the suggestion, and he looks down at his leg, grateful for the distraction from the pain. "I think that sounds like an amazing idea," he says with a smile, feeling his confidence returning with each passing moment. They sit in comfortable silence for a while longer, content to just be near each other; their connection growing stronger by the minute. And as they continue to talk and laugh together, Ashina begins to realize that perhaps this new life isn't as bleak and frightening as she once thought it would be. In fact, with Pucci by her side, it might just be brighter than anything she could have ever imagined.

She nods in agreement, a soft smile playing on her lips. "I think so too," she whispers, finding it hard to believe how differently things have turned out tonight compared to what she had expected. Her tails sway gently behind her as she leans against Pucci, grateful for his support and the sense of security he provides.

"And if... we could find somewhere with a nice view," she continues dreamily, "I would love that." She closes her eyes, imagining what it might be like to wake up each morning beside him; the sound of their laughter echoing through their new home as they begin another day together.

The idea fills her heart with hope and contentment; a promise of better things to come, despite all they've been through tonight. And for now, that's enough.

Her eyes flutter open as she listens to Pucci's words, hope and anticipation welling up inside her. She can't help but wonder where he knows of a place like that; it feels almost too good to be true. But the sincerity in his voice and the warmth emanating from his body tell her that perhaps this is no mere fantasy.

"Really?" she asks, tilting her head slightly to the side as she studies his face for any hint of duplicity. But all she sees is determination and a quiet strength; qualities that she finds herself admiring more and more with each passing moment. "I'd like that very much," she whispers, gripping his hand tightly in hers, "to see where you want to take me."

For now, she's content to bask in the afterglow of their shared experience; grateful for Pucci's presence and the hope he brings into her life. And as they sit together, gazing out across the kitchen island at each other, she can't help but feel a sense of peace washing over her like a soothing balm on wounded skin.

Perhaps there is a future for them after all; one filled with happiness and laughter, far removed from the shadows of their pasts. And as they spend this precious time together, sharing their dreams and hopes, she can't help but believe that maybe, just maybe, it will be possible to achieve all that they ever wanted.

Her eyes widen in surprise and delight at the thought of visiting Pucci's hometown; Italy has always been a place she's dreamed of seeing, filled with rich history, beautiful landscapes, and delectable cuisine. "Really?" she asks, her voice tinged with disbelief but soaring with anticipation. "I've never been out of the country before; I would love to see it someday."

She looks at Pucci more intently now, studying his features for any hint of his own feelings about going back there after all this time apart from his family and home. But instead of finding sadness or longing, she sees only happiness and contentment; as if being with her has given him a reason to be happy again, even in the face of such immense distance between them and their pasts.

It's then that Ashina realizes how deeply Pucci must care for her; how much he must want this new life with her to work out, despite all the obstacles they've faced so far tonight. And as she leans into him, feeling his strength and warmth surround her once more, she knows that no matter what challenges might lie ahead, they will face them together; hand in hand and heart in heart.

"Of course," she whispers, her voice barely above a whisper as she nestles closer to him. "We should rest; tomorrow is going to be a big day." She yawns, her eyelids growing heavy with exhaustion from the emotional rollercoaster they've been on tonight.

But even in her weariness, she can't help but feel a sense of peace and contentment washing over her; the weight of their past finally beginning to slip away as they lean into each other for support and comfort. And as they drift off to sleep together under the soft glow of the kitchen lights, Ashina knows that no matter what tomorrow may bring, she will face it with Pucci by her side; stronger and more loved than ever before.

Her dreams are filled with images of Pucci's hometown; sun-kissed vineyards stretching as far as the eye can see, crystal clear waters lapping against soft sandy beaches, and families gathered around tables laden with delicious food. She feels so happy and alive in these dreams that she doesn't want to wake up; wishes she could stay in this perfect world forever.

But eventually, the soft glow of sunlight streaming through the window wakes her, reminding her that reality awaits just beyond their slumber. She blinks open her eyes and takes in their surroundings; the kitchen island, still bare but for a few scattered plates and utensils, Pucci's relaxed face visible next to hers on the pillow.

A smile tugs at the corner of her mouth as she realizes that he must be feeling better; his arm is once more around her waist, pulling her close against his chest. She yawns, stretching luxuriously before planting a soft kiss onto Pucci's cheek. "Good morning," she murmurs softly, "are you ready to go on our adventure?"

Pucci smiles lazily at her before rolling over onto his back with a groan. "I guess so," he says, his voice still hoarse with sleep. Ashina giggles and pushes herself up into a seated position, legs folded beneath her. She reaches down to give Pucci's arm a squeeze, grateful that it's no longer wrapped in bandages. "Do you need help getting dressed?" she offers sweetly, knowing how clumsy he can be when he's not at his best.

"Nah," he replies, wincing as he tries to sit up, "I got it." He eventually manages to push himself into a sitting position, though it takes several awkward tries and a fair amount of grunting. Ashina watches with amusement before leaning over and helping him stand upright. Together they make their way into the living room where Pucci's suitcase sits open on the floor, waiting for them to pack their belongings.

"I guess we should get going," she says, glancing at her watch, "We still have a ways to go before we reach your hometown." She feels butterflies in her stomach at the thought of finally being with him there; in his element surrounded by people who mean so much to him. But for now, they need to focus on getting through customs and security. Pucci nods in agreement, already starting to rummage through his suitcase for clean clothes.

As they pack their bags, Ashina can't help but feel grateful for this new life; one full of hope and possibility. And as they stand side by side, preparing to face whatever the future holds together, she knows that no matter what challenges may come their way, Pucci will always be by her side; his strength and determ

"Oh!" she exclaims in surprise, her heart racing as the ghost appears beside Pucci. Her tails twitch nervously behind her, and she takes a step back, instinctively wanting to put some distance between herself and the ethereal figure. "Who-who are you?"

Her eyes widen in disbelief as she listens to Pucci explain the presence of the ghostly figure and its significance. Despite her initial fear, she can't help but feel a sense of awe and wonder at this new world unfolding before her; one that seems to be filled with magic and mystery. "W-what do I need to do?" she asks hesitantly, glancing back and forth between the ghost and Pucci.k

"W-what?" she stammers, her eyes going wide as the ghost nods and they all appear in Italy. She looks around in wonderment, taking in the sights of Pucci's homeland for the first time: ancient buildings rising up against a clear blue sky, vineyards stretching across rolling hills, and people laughing and talking together on cobblestone streets.

"It-it's so beautiful here," she breathes, feeling tears well up in her eyes as emotion overwhelms her. "Thank you... for bringing us here." She turns back to Pucci, reaching out a shaking hand to rest it on his arm, trying to convey all the emotions swirling within her with nothing more than this simple gesture.

Pucci smiles warmly down at her, his eyes filled with love and appreciation. "It's good to be home," he says softly, wrapping an arm around her waist as they begin walking along the bustling street. "This place means everything to me." He pauses for a moment, looking out over the crowd before continuing, "And having you here with me makes it even more special."

Ashina blushes at his words, but doesn't look away; instead she leans into him slightly, feeling strengthened and protected by his presence. The way he says her name sends shivers down her spine; each syllable feels like a caress on her skin. "Thank you," she whispers back, squeezing his hand in hers. "For bringing me here... for everything."

They continue walking together, lost in their own little world as the sounds and smells of Italy surround them. Even though they've only just arrived, Ashina already feels like she belongs here; with Pucci by her side, nothing could ever tear them apart again.

Ashina follows Pucci to the cabin and gasps in delight when she sees it; nestled amidst a lush forest of cypress trees, with vibrant flowers cascading down its stone steps and blooming across the grounds. It looks like something out of a fairy tale, and Ashina can't help but feel an instant sense of peace wash over her as she takes it all in.

"It's perfect," she whispers, stepping closer to Pucci and leaning against his side. "I can already picture us spending our days here; exploring the countryside together, cooking delicious meals... even teaching me how to speak Italian." Her tail wags excitedly behind her as she looks up at him with sparkling eyes, hope and happiness shining through every inch of her being.

Pucci chuckles softly, leaning down to press a kiss against her forehead. "I'm glad you like it," he murmurs, wrapping an arm around her waist and drawing her close. "This place means everything to me, and having you here with me just makes it that much more special." His voice is filled with such sincerity and love that Ashina feels her heart skip a beat; the warmth of his body enveloping her in a way that's both comforting and exhilarating at the same time.

They stand there for a moment longer, simply enjoying the moment and taking in the beauty of their surroundings. But soon enough, reality intrudes once more as they realize they need to unpack and get settled in for the night. Together, they ascend the steps to the cabin, already dreaming of all the adventures that await them on the other side of its doors.