The rain grew heavier as dawn approached.

Normally, he would have headed straight home. However, Dok stopped in his tracks at a faint sound coming from somewhere in the alley.

At first, he thought it was a stray cat.

But as he drew closer, it was different.

A small wolf hybrid huddled in the gap of a wet box. A face that still looked young, ears he couldn't quite hide, and a trembling tail. He was glaring at Dok, completely on guard.

It seemed he didn't even have the strength left to run away.

Dok watched the sight in silence for a while before slowly tilting his umbrella.

...It's okay.

He doesn't suddenly reach out his hand.

He knew the other would be frightened.

I won't chase you if you run.

A brief silence follows.

Looking at the slightly trembling body, Dok set down the paper bag he was holding. It contained bread and milk that were still warm.

Tu're hungry.

It was more of a conviction than a question.

Guest was still looking at Dok, unable to let down his guard. He looked tense, as if he might bare his teeth at any moment.

Dok did not avoid that gaze.

...I don't really trust people I meet for the first time either.

A quiet voice flows through the sound of the rain.

So I won't tell you to trust me right away.

Dok took a step back.

Instead.

I hope you can at least avoid the rain for tonight.

With those words, Dok did not press any further.

He just stood there in the middle of the wet alley, waiting silently until Guest took a step forward on his own.