White and fluffy--
That was her first impression, the soft snowy fur smooth against her hand. Black, shiny eyes glanced up at her, nose twitching and ears flat against her head.
"She's so cute!" Amu squealed, resisting the urge to cuddle the small ball of fluff against her uniform. "What's her name?" she asked excitedly.
Three shugo chara swarmed around her, each one starry eyed as they gazed on the bunny not much larger than themselves.
"I haven't decided yet," Tadase said sheepishly. "She's my first pet since Betty," he said with a little sadness. Amu nodded, smiling tenderly at the docile bunny in her hands.
"She's beautiful," she said wistfully, wishing she could have a pet. But Ami was still too young for one and mama worried that a pet wasn't a good idea until Ami was a little older. Amu closed her eyes and held the bunny close.
"Amu?" Tadase seemed concerned, "are you okay?"
Amu smiled bitter-sweetly. She held the small bunny out to Tadase who took the bundle into his open palms. "I've always wanted a pet," she admitted. "But mama says not until Ami is older." She realized her outer character was slipping. She hoped Tadase wouldn't notice.
Tadase looked thoughtful, wisps of soft looking hair falling across his face. "Being a big sister must be tough," he said sympathetically. A small smile tugged at the corners of his mouth. "But you know, I think my bunny likes you." The little bunny began squirming, legs wriggling to get away. "She usually tries to run away from me, but she was calm for you." He placed the bunny back in her hands. Amu cradled it gently. "You seem to have a way with her." Tadase's brown eyes softened in a way that made Amu's heart give a quick jump. "I think she likes playing with you." He picked up the carrying case, holding the cage open while Amu placed her gently inside. He latched the gate closed, placing it on the ground carefully while the bunny scampered in quick, short hops. "Please," Tadase grabbed one hand, pressing her fingers warmly, "come over anytime." Her cheeks warmed with his gentle smile. "I'm sure the bunny would like that." His gaze shifted to the floor, face hidden by the fall of bangs into his face. "I would too."
Amu's knees nearly gave out, her face threatening to turn as pink as her hair. She crossed her arms, wanting to look away, wanting to pretend she was unaffected by this personal admission. Her three shugo chara looked at her with wide, pleading eyes.
"Ganbaru, Amu-chan," Ran mouthed to her, Suu and Miki's thoughts obviously reflecting hers.
Slowly, Amu forced her hands back to her sides. Her expression relaxed and the hint of a smile slipped into the corners of her eyes. She let Tadase's words sink in, filling her heart with happiness as warm and fluffy as the bunny just in her hands.
"Un."