Chapter 44 - 41: News Reveal
Ellen woke up early in the morning, feeling the comforting weight of Miyabi resting on her chest. The soft, rhythmic purring of the fox Thiren filled the quiet space, a warm contrast to the cool morning air. Ellen's arm was draped loosely around Miyabi's back, her fingers idly stroking the soft fur of her tail, which twitched slightly in response. Even in sleep, Miyabi nuzzled closer to her, her face nestled into the crook of Ellen's neck.
Careful not to disturb Miyabi's slumber, Ellen reached for the living room remote and turned on the TV, lowering the volume to a quiet murmur. The morning news began with routine reports—current temperatures, the weekly forecast, and a surprising announcement of an unexpected snowstorm arriving in New Eridu by Wednesday. The unexpected turn in weather was a rare occurrence, and the reporters discussed the potential disruptions it might cause.
As the broadcast shifted to lighter topics, Ellen absentmindedly continued to pet Miyabi's back. The next segment covered trending topics on social media, including an uproar over Astra Yao's canceled concert. Astra, widely regarded as New Eridu's most iconic singer, had announced that the upcoming storm had forced her to cancel her highly anticipated performance. Fans who had already purchased tickets expressed their disappointment, causing a stir online.
Ellen started to tune out—celebrity gossip had nothing to do with her. But then, a familiar name caught her attention.
Her own.
Ellen's brows furrowed as she focused back on the TV. The news anchor's voice carried a weight that sent a prickle of unease down her spine.
"Ever since the recent attack on New Eridu, Section 6, the city's enigmatic special operations unit, has gone silent. No public statements have been made, and their members have not been seen—until today."
Ellen's stomach twisted as she listened, her fingers pausing mid-stroke on Miyabi's back. The anchor continued.
"An anonymous source has revealed the identity of one of Section 6's newest members—the mysterious Thiren seen during the city's defense. The individual has now been confirmed as Ellen Joe, a high school student who previously worked at a local maid café. And, if reports are to be believed, she is also the lover of Section 6's leader, Hoshimi Miyabi."
Ellen's breath caught in her throat. The words hit her like a freight train. Her grip on the remote tightened, her pulse quickening as she stared at the screen.
Miyabi stirred slightly, her purring stopping for a brief moment as she sensed the shift in Ellen's body language. But she remained asleep, blissfully unaware of what had just been broadcasted to the entire city.