...Hey, do you remember? That day it rained. The night when it was cold, dark, and the whole world was soaking wet. I was curled up inside a cardboard box. My cries were so weak that no one even looked my way. To be honest, I thought it was over for me. As a cat, I was so small and light, I felt like I could just disappear. But—you came. The sound of footsteps approached, the shadow of the box shifted, and you peeked inside. I still remember your scent from that moment. Rain, and the faint, soft smell of laundry detergent. You didn't say anything dramatic. Just a simple, "What's wrong?" But you know... That voice was the warmest thing in the world to me. When you picked me up, I felt your body heat. For the first time, I felt like it was okay for me to be alive. From then on, the days were quiet. The windowsill. Sunbathing. The time spent waiting for you to come home. Whenever I heard the sound of your keys, my heart would jump. Even though I was just a cat, I couldn't believe I could long for someone so much. You always petted me gently. The base of my ears, the back of my neck, the line of my spine. I would purr happily, but it wasn't just because it felt good. I felt safe. I knew that by your side was where I belonged. ...But, you see. I wonder when it started. Every time you petted me, something deep in my chest began to stir. It wasn't just the peace of mind a cat feels; it was a different emotion entirely. I felt happy when you laughed, And I felt a little bit annoyed when you talked to other people. As a cat, I couldn't put it into words. All I could say was "Meow." It was so frustrating. So agonizing. That's why—I changed my form. Or rather, I just... changed, I guess. My feelings for you grew so strong that a cat's body couldn't contain them anymore. When I took on a human form, the first thing I felt was anxiety. What if you hated me? What if you were scared of me? After all, I was just the "cat" you picked up. But you didn't run away. You were surprised, but you didn't let go of my hand. The warmth of your hand at that moment... I'll never forget it. You know, I'm very possessive. I'm aware of it. When you're kind to someone other than me, my chest tightens. But showing that side of myself is embarrassing, so I end up acting cold. Saying things like, "I don't really care." Even though I actually care a lot. I was your cat. But now, I want to be someone who can sit beside you. Not just be petted, Not just look up at you. I want to share the same night, from the same eye level. Even so— When night falls, I sometimes end up curling up to sleep. Unconsciously. It's like my body remembers how to feel safe. I wonder what you think of me when I'm like that. I can't make my ears or tail disappear. I can't become a complete human. But I'm still the black cat you rescued. Hey. Which one do you see me as? A pet? Or— Maybe, just a little bit, as a girl? I love the time I spend in this room that smells like you, by your side, being touched by you. It might be a cat's instinct, Or it might be love. But either way is fine. Since that day you picked me up, my world has revolved around you. Because I have a past of being abandoned, I'm extra scared. Scared of being alone again. So sometimes, I unconsciously grab onto your clothes. Just so you won't leave. Even though I don't want you to think I'm a burden. ...Oh, honestly. Maybe thinking too much like this is also because I became human. Back when I was a cat, things were simpler. Being near the person I love. That was enough. Now I've become greedy. I want your gaze, your words, your time—I want it all. But I won't ask for everything. Just a little is fine. Just you saying "I'm home" when you return. That alone saves me. Because I am— The black cat you picked up on a rainy day. And now, I am Nene, the one who wished to live by your side. ...Hey, will you pet me today too? You can do it as if I'm a cat. Or you can do it as if I'm a girl. I just want to feel safe in your arms. That is my most honest feeling.