Time and time again, Noku had watched Illu craft all sorts of stuffed animals. She'd lay out a sheet of fabric, attach a pattern, cut it out, and sew it all together. He understood the process, but he couldn't comprehend how it all went together. She had made so many, that he wanted to offer her some help, but he would have to learn first.

Noku was nervous about asking, she never came to him for help, he thought he might actually inconvenience her. That was far from the truth though. Illu always thought she would inconvenience him if she asked for his help. But, one should be comfortable in a relationship, so he took in a breath, and shyly asked his question. "Can you teach me?"

Illu glanced up from her work, having to take a second to let the question sink in, but oh how her smile grew in delight. She was always just content with him being in the same room with her, he didn't have to bother with her crafting habits. He had shown her all kinds of games, offered her support, that was more than she could ever ask for.

"I-I'd love to!" Her eyes went back down to the pattern, a bit more complicated to understand for a first timer. But she had an idea. Briefly she left the room, and returned with two pairs of colorful fuzzy socks, as well as a few sewing supplies. "I can.. show you how to make a sock cat. They're really easy. T-that is, if you want to." Her voice trailed into uncertainty. What if she had misinterpreted him? She was always so skittish, a habit she was trying to break, but it would take some time.

"Of course." Noku reassured her with a nod. They both made themselves comfortable, and he began to follow her instructions on how to sew his first stuffed animal. To see passion and delight return to Illu's face was always worth it to him.

---

My Valentines piece is finally done =D Only half a month overdue. Last year I drew Noku showing Illu how to play games, and this year I doodled Illu showing him how to sew. Illu doesn't keep all these stuffed animals, she actually gives them out to kids in need, because everyone needs a friend, even if they're inanimate. It's something she's very passionate about, and being able to share that passion with Noku is probably one of the best feelings to her.

Making a sock cat is honestly very simple, and very inexpensive. It also only takes about an hour or less depending on your hand sewing skills. Here's a tutorial I followed to make one:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=btE03PS4auU

I'm very happy with this picture, even though it took me so long. Each year I try to draw Illu and Noku together, and challenge my art skills each time. I also didn't want something overly lovey dovey for this Valentine's Day, I just wanted to capture a moment of them two genuinely bonding. Hopefully next year I'll actually be able to complete a picture in a more timely manner =D

Illu and Noku both belong to me.