Ep. 9: Pochita reveals his past and Inukai's emotional history to Nekotani

9

Inukai demonstrates Pochita’s obedience through a begging routine, prompting her peers to invite him to the upcoming dog cafe event. Tsukishiro observes this interaction with visible jealousy. The following day, the group prepares the venue while Inukai isolates herself to practice paper chains. Nekotani arrives to announce her class’s hotdog stand but accidentally becomes covered in glue. Inukai offers her leash for assistance, attracting the dogs due to the scent. Nekotani collides with Pochita, causing him to stick to her skirt. In a panic, she removes the garment and flees, eventually tripping and losing consciousness. Pochita frees himself as she regains awareness, but spots approaching boys. He guides her to safety to preserve her modesty. Nekotani then shares a childhood photograph showing her and Inukai playing with a dog, revealing Pochita was Inukai’s first companion. She explains that Inukai grew cold after the dog’s death and cries, noting she never elicited Inukai’s smiles. Observing his exceptional intelligence, she suspects he is actually human, which shocks him.