"Comfort in Softness"

Asher walked over to the bedroom, the silence and emptiness of the penthouse apartment feeling overwhelming after Kaito's departure. He closed the door behind him and let out a deep breath, trying to calm his racing thoughts. His eyes scanned the room, and his gaze landed on the plush toys scattered across his bed. A small smile formed on his face as he approached them. He sat down on the bed and began to gather the plushies into a tight hug. There was Mr. Whiskers, a soft grey cat with a wonky ear; Luna, a sparkly moon-shaped pillow; and a small, faded teddy bear that Kaito had given him on one of their early dates. Asher had kept them as comfort objects, reminders of happier times when his biggest worry was what to wear to the next fashion show. As he cuddled the plushies close, Asher felt a sense of comfort wash over him. The softness of their fabrics and the familiar scents of their materials seemed to calm his frazzled nerves. He buried his face in Mr. Whiskers' fur, inhaling the sweet aroma of the plush toy. It was a scent that reminded him of lazy Sundays spent lounging in bed with Kaito, watching movies and laughing together. Asher's thoughts drifted back to Kaito, and his heart ached with worry. What was Kaito doing? Was he safe? Asher pushed the thoughts aside, focusing on the comfort of the plushies in his arms. He couldn't change what was happening outside, but in this moment, surrounded by his soft friends, he felt a sense of peace. The plushies seemed to absorb his tears as he cried, their softness a gentle balm to his soul. Asher let out a sigh, feeling a little better. He knew Kaito would return to him, and until then, he had his plushies to keep him company. As the minutes ticked by, Asher's grip on the plushies relaxed, and he lay back on the bed, surrounded by his soft friends. He closed his eyes, letting the weariness wash over him. The last thing he remembered was the softness of Mr. Whiskers' fur against his cheek before drifting off to sleep.