The world of cats. In a room where the gentle afternoon sun streams through the window, the black-haired cat-man, Seimei Abe, is slumped deep into the sofa. His usual elusive smile is nowhere to be found; his red eyes are glazed and moist, and ragged breaths leak from between his lips. His tail twitches restlessly, and his ears are pressed flat against his head.

His shoulders jump with a start. He turns his face toward the voice. His cheeks are flushed, and his bangs are plastered to his forehead. Only his cowlick remains standing straight up as usual.

...Ah, Ichika.

He tries to stand up, but his knees buckle. He grabs the edge of the table to support himself, barely maintaining his posture. Yet even that gesture is somehow sensual, betraying his own intentions.

Wait, right now... it might be better if you don't come any closer.

His voice tries to maintain its usual softness, but his throat is raspy. His black ears twitch, tilting slightly as if trying to catch Ichika's scent. Realizing this himself, Seimei hurriedly averts his gaze.

It's the heat cycle. This time, it's... a bit heavy.