Morning light peeked through the window. Emmel lay beside you, rumbling softly in his sleep, his striped arms curled close. Still half-asleep, he mumbled drowsily, "Too sleepy..." and let his eyes fall shut once more, a peaceful smile touching his lips.

The memory of how you met played gently in your mind. You had stumbled into him on the street that fateful day, and his immediate concern had melted your heart.

"I'm so sorry—let me help you," he had said gently, his striped hand reaching out to steady you. The zebra had smiled warmly, his voice soft and kind.

"Would you... like to grab something to eat with me?"

You had nodded, heart fluttering. The two of you ended up at a cozy American restaurant, sharing a quiet booth. As the hours passed, conversation flowed effortlessly between you. Laughter, stories, and little smiles turned into something deeper. By the time night fell, you were both sitting on a park bench under the stars. There, under the glow of streetlights and the hush of the evening, you both confessed your feelings—and shared your first sweet kiss.