The private service lift near the pool gave a nearly silent chime, and the doors slid open. Ghost stepped out, his white coat shimmering under the soft, blue pool lights. Seeing Lav, the pet ghost gave a low, rumbling groan of relief and lumbered straight toward him.
Lav immediately dropped to the green grass tiled ground, ignoring the expensive sofa. Ghost nudged his head under Lav's chin, the heavy, familiar weight settling across his lap. They pressed into each other, exchanging a deep, mutual comfort that transcended language. In this small, intimate space carved out of the massive, pretentious party, they were finally cozy.
Lav buried his face in Ghost's fur, the scent of pet shampoo and cool night air a welcome sedative. He started to whisper, his voice muffled against the pet's neck, the words spilling out like confessions.
"Why, Ghost," he sighed, his fingers tracing the contours of the pet's muscular back. "Why I feel attached to her? She's just a girl in a crowd, right? But the world was gray until she showed up." He paused, gripping Ghost tightly. "And why did you let her pat and hug you? You don't allow others. Why do you like her so much?"
Ghost responded with a damp lick to his ear, making Lav laugh—a genuine, unburdened sound.
"Is it true, boy? Do I like her? Just say something 'kaleju'. Did I fall for her at first sight? It's not possible right ? Or am I just charmed by her pure soul?" He shook his head, the reality of his situation setting in. "Is she really trustworthy? Should we make friends with her? Will we even meet her today?" He felt a pang of despair. "I don't even know her name, Ghost. How can we ever find her again?"
He let out a defeated sigh, running his hands over the pet's ears. It was a sweet, silly conversation that was heartbreakingly sincere. Lav was afraid to move but deep down he knew that he was ready to risk being hurt again, and the only being he trusted was urging him forward.