I'm Serious About This

That's just how life worked, huh…?

Even ants had to struggle every day just to get their food—just like he had to struggle to survive.

As he fell into a spiral of negativity, Laxus let out a soft sigh before effortlessly lifting him into his arms.

Even when Laxus patted his back gently, Rocco wasn't sure if his heart would recover anytime soon…

"Hmm… Rocco, do you want to pet something fluffy?"

"Fluffy…?"

"Want to touch a wolf's fur? It's super soft."

"Shrrr!!!"

Instant recovery.

Like a wilted flower blooming back to life in an instant, Rocco's dark mood completely vanished.

For a few seconds, Rocco swayed with excitement before Laxus lowered his gaze slightly.

Then, with a small pop, a pair of animal ears sprouted from his head.

Without missing a beat—snatch!—Rocco grabbed them and immediately started nibbling them.

"Ham! Ham-ham…! Nngh!?"