Maya was a cat person. She didn't hate dogs, but she found their loud and over-excitable personalities a little overwhelming. Besides, with cats one had to earn respect, whereas dogs would love you immediately no matter what. That suited some people, she supposed, but not her. At least, not usually.
It was easy to draw comparisons between Karen and a dog. She was a loving, loyal friend to everyone, and she also sometimes rushed into situations because she wasn't thinking and made a fool of herself. Even her hair vaguely reminded Maya of a big golden retriever. If the dorm was a family then Karen really did fit the role of the family dog, and Maya supposed she wouldn't have it any other way.
"Again. From the top."
It was late in the afternoon, the setting sun dyeing the practice room a warm orange. Karen had approached Maya earlier that day, unsure of some things regarding their upcoming production of Starlight and her role as Flora. She had come for advice, and Maya figured that as top star she had no shortage of advice to give. She had invited Karen to practice with her, an invitation that had been gleefully accepted.
"You're moving too fast. You need to slow down a little, make sure your lines are delivered clearly." Maya could tell Karen was trying. The basics of what was needed were there, but it was untempered, lacking in the sort of discipline that one developed as a result of a lifetime of honing one's craft. Karen pouted slightly, an expression Maya had to admit was kind of adorable.
"Slow down, okay," Karen said for what had to be the millionth time. It seemed Karen had trouble adjusting to slower speeds.
"I know you're excited, but you need to be able to sync up with Kagura-san." Karen perked up at the mention of Hikari's name. She always did that. It never failed to create a heavy sort of sensation in Maya's chest. "Tell you what, if we can get through this scene together, I'll give you a treat."
"What kind of treat?" Karen's big excited grin made Maya's heart race a little.
"You'll have to finish the scene to find out. Come."
Much like a dog, the promise of a reward seemed to be enough. Karen's performance was almost perfect, save for one or two hiccups that could be smoothed out later. Karen had the makings of a great performer, and Maya was slowly coming to realize that. She had grown from the girl who was content to be in the background, and was now a brilliant stage girl in her own right. With the right discipline she could probably even challenge Maya's position as top star. It pleased her, in a sense.
"Well done. You've really improved today," Maya said, placing a reassuring hand on Karen's shoulder. Karen beamed.
"So do I get my reward now?" She was practically bouncing. Cute.
"Yes. Close your eyes." Karen shut her eyes tightly, that smile still spread across her face. It made Maya smile too as she leaned in.
The kiss she planted on Karen's cheek was gentle and quick, but she could still feel the skin heat up as a blush began to form. Karen's eyes opened wide as Maya pulled away, a hand rubbing at the spot where her lips had touched.
Maya was a cat person. But she loved this little puppy.