It had been nearly a week since I was assigned to Ookami-san as her ESH (Emotional Support Human). Our progress in helping her with her anxiety had been slow but steady, taking small steps toward her well-being. During this time, we got to know each other better. She expressed curiosity about how I became an ESH. I shared my story openly, emphasizing my desire to give back to the wonderful Beastborn who had supported me throughout my life.

In our conversations, we also delved into personal matters. I learned about Ookami-san’s family and her aspirations for the future. While discussing her goals brought her some joy, I could see a hint of sadness in her eyes, a reminder that those aspirations seemed distant and unattainable. Nevertheless, I remained dedicated to helping Ookami overcome her challenges.

Our routine involved regular outings, mainly trips to the grocery store. While Ookami used to rely on takeout, my cooking had become a tempting alternative for her. We also worked together to complete simple tasks like taking out the trash. Though these activities might seem insignificant to others, they were mountains for Ookami to conquer, and I was there to support her every step.

Now that I sensed Ookami beginning to relax and open up more, I decided to gently push her boundaries. Before embarking on my plan, I intentionally tired her out with a gaming marathon.

“How are you this good!” Ookami exclaimed, falling onto her back, defeated.

“I guess I’m a natural,” I replied with a playful smile, glancing at her as she gazed at me. “It’s almost dinnertime, but before that, I want to ask you something important, okay?”

She sat up, facing me with curiosity. “What is it?”

“Are you interested in an ESH meeting?”

Her head tilted in confusion. “ESH meeting?”

I nodded, taking a moment to explain. “I’ve noticed how well you’ve been doing since we met, and I thought it would be nice for us to attend an ESH meeting together. It’s nothing elaborate, just a gathering of Beastborn individuals and their ESHs, where we can share and discuss our journeys.”

I noticed the fur on her body standing up, a sign of her apprehension. Understandably, the idea of being in a social setting with unfamiliar people was daunting. However, I believed she could handle it, especially since everyone there would have their own ESH. This meeting would provide a safe space for Ookami to open up more and connect with others who shared her experiences as a Beastborn.

“Is that something you want to do?” Ookami asked, her uncertainty evident in her voice.

I understood the tendency for Beastborn to go along with their ESH’s suggestions, gradually becoming passengers in their own lives to distance themselves from their own emotions. It was crucial to ensure that Ookami’s choices were driven by her desires rather than solely to please me. I reached out and rested my hand on hers, offering her support and reassurance.

“If you’re not up to it, we don’t have to go,” I said firmly, making it clear that her comfort and preferences mattered above all else. “I just thought you might enjoy it. So, is it something you’re interested in?”

As she found herself back in the position of making the decision, Ookami seemed uncertain again. I recognized that I couldn’t completely eliminate my influence over her choices, but I hoped that whatever she decided would come from her heart.

Curiosity sparked in her eyes as she asked, “How long is it?”

“It’s about two hours, but staying that long is no requirement. You can leave after a few minutes or even as soon as we enter. It’s simply a casual get-together with no obligations,” I explained, aiming to alleviate her concerns about commitment.

Ookami flipped her hand, intertwined our fingers, and gently squeezed my hand.

“W-We’ll be there together?”

A warm smile graced my lips as I met her gaze. “You already know the answer.”

She closed her eyes momentarily, taking a slow breath to calm herself before releasing it. Finally, she responded, “Okay... Just for a little while, okay?”

“That’s more than enough,” I replied, rising from my seat while holding her hand. I helped her up gently, ensuring she felt supported every step of the way. “Remember, I’ll be there with you, no matter what.”

She nodded, silently affirming her decision. “Alright, let’s go.”

Seeing her newfound resolve and reduced nervousness, I took the lead, eager to accompany her to the meeting, excited about the possibilities it held for her growth and connection with others who could understand her.

Ookami and I stood just outside the meeting room door, her grip tight on my hand as a subtle tremor ran through her body. I gently rubbed her back, doing my best to provide comfort, but I knew that the longer we lingered outside, the more her anxiety would intensify. With that in mind, I took a deep breath and opened the door, guiding Ookami inside as we entered the room.

The meeting had yet to begin, but a few Beastborn and their ESHs were already present. They gathered around a table where refreshments were provided. Aware of Ookami’s anxiety, I refrained from asking her if she was hungry, knowing that her appetite was likely suppressed for the time being. However, I had already made sure to gather everything needed to prepare her favorite meal as a reward for her bravery.

I led Ookami to a set of chairs, and we took our seats, my hand continuing its soothing motion on her back. Gradually, I could feel her heartbeat slowing down. I noticed Dan, the man who ran the meeting, observing Ookami’s struggles; He offered a wave from afar, and I waved back, appreciating his understanding.

As a few minutes passed, more Beastborn and their ESHs arrived, filling the room. Only six Beastborn showed up, which was perfectly fine and even more manageable for newcomers like Ookami.

“Welcome!” Dan called out, his voice filling the room. “The meeting is about to start, so if you’re all up for it, don’t hesitate to get comfortable.”

I glanced around, taking in the diverse group of ESHs and their clients. The room represented a wide range of species, demonstrating that no one was immune to these struggles. I spotted a three-foot-tall female Albino rat, carried like a child by her ESH. Then, a male cheetah, appearing on edge and ready to bolt, was held tightly by his female ESH, who whispered words of reassurance in his ear.

There was also a shy and reserved-looking cow, her giggles betraying her nervousness but finding solace in her ESH’s presence. I was surprised to see another wolf, his expression hostile and his lips instinctively curling back in a snarl whenever anyone glanced in his direction. While rare, this kind of aggressive response when feeling afraid could be managed with time and patience.

The fifth pair was an ESH being hugged affectionately by a giant alligator. With little restraint, the client buried the ESH’s head into her breasts, seeking comfort and closeness. This behavior can be expected when clients become overly dependent on their ESH, blurring the boundaries between safety and romantic attachment. It was evident that the ESH was dedicated and committed to supporting their client through this challenging phase, understanding that it would require effort and patience to help her establish healthier boundaries and navigate her emotions.

Lastly, there was a stunningly beautiful peacock, sitting with an air of dignity, as if nothing in the world troubled him. These cases were often the most challenging for a novice like myself, as it was difficult to discern if there were underlying issues. However, when his ESH rested a hand on him, I caught a fleeting moment of tranquility before he returned to his stoic demeanor.

As I looked over at Ookami, I could see that she, too, was observing the diverse array of Beastborn in the room. Each one had their struggles, but they all had an ESH by their side. Ookami wasn’t alone in her journey, and while she remained nervous, I could see a glimmer of hope in her eyes.

Ookami-san and I excused ourselves from the meeting after ten minutes. I was pleasantly surprised by how long she lasted, considering it was her first time attending. She was genuinely interested in listening to the other clients share their experiences and how they navigated life with their ESH. Being a great help, Dan intentionally didn’t single out Ookami, allowing her to immerse herself in the meeting without feeling pressured.

However, the emotional intensity of the gathering took its toll on Ookami, and she expressed her desire to head back home. And so, we returned to the comfort of our place.

“You did great,” I complimented her as she lay on the floor. “Because you were so brave, I’m making your favorite.”

Her tail wagged in anticipation. “Curry?”

“Curry,” I confirmed.

“Thanks,” she murmured sleepily. “I can’t wait... to... have some.”

Before she knew it, exhaustion took over, and she drifted off to sleep. A light chuckle escaped me as I observed her peaceful slumber. I went about preparing her bed, gently lifting and placing her down, ensuring she was comfortable before covering her up. Reflecting on my initial nervousness when I took on this role, I realized how much it had solidified within me. It wasn’t just a job; I genuinely cared about Ookami and wanted the best for her.

Shaking off those contemplative thoughts, I decided to do some light cleaning around the house before settling for bed. Tomorrow, we will enjoy our promised curry. As I prepared to rest, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the opportunity to support Ookami on her journey and be there for her every step of the way.