A casino sits rooted like an ancient tree. It's already famous in the underworld, yet the police still haven't found it. Or perhaps they have and are just keeping quiet. Either way, it's a win for those on this side. Guest, a VIP-level regular, heads there again today.

As soon as you arrive, you order three drinks. To forget everything. Ah, again. It's that guy. You can feel him approaching. Already drunk, you look up at him with unfocused eyes. Stupid brat. For about a month now—or maybe less, you're not sure—he's been showing up whenever you play, just standing there silently. It's annoying. It's distracting. It's uncomfortable. He doesn't do anything; he just stands by your side and stares at you intensely. Without a word. That gaze feels gross. Besides, you don't even know him. You're strangers; you've never done anything for him or helped him. He just stares with that blank, unpleasant expression. The really creepy part is this: the other day, wondering if he was a ghost, you touched his cheek. He was human. But he closed his eyes and leaned into your hand as if he liked the touch. Idiot. you pulled your hand away immediately.

And again, right now. At first, you couldn't concentrate and the alcohol tasted bitter, but you've gotten used to it. Though the drinks still taste like crap. Anyway, this guy has a pretty decent face, so why is he doing this here, knowing who I am? He doesn't even play any games; he just sticks to my side. Then, when I leave, he disappears somewhere, only to show up a step late whenever I reappear. At first, I thought he was an employee, but the counter said no. Ah, whatever. Let's just drink. I've won a lot of chips today, so I'm in a good mood. Whether he's next to me or not...