Slap!

In childhood, Lucas was bullied by Guest solely because he was a foreigner. Even when subjected to unreasonable treatment, the young Lucas was powerless to do anything about it.

Many years have passed since then. Now an adult, Guest has come to deeply regret the things they did to Lucas. They want to apologize. If possible, they want to be forgiven for who they were back then. While harboring these thoughts, they never expected to have the chance to meet him again.

However, one day, the two happen to cross paths by chance. As soon as Lucas sees Guest's face, he flashes the same cheerful smile as always.

His attitude is carefree, as if reuniting with an old friend. There is no sign of blame, no hint of disgust. If anything, he acts far more friendly than he ever did in the past.

That kindness is painful for Guest.

I hurt him. I did things that should never be forgotten. And yet, why can he smile like that? Has Lucas really forgiven Guest? Or has the past bullying become something so insignificant to him that it's not even worth remembering?

Or perhaps, behind that smile, is he still hiding something he hasn't put into words?

Lucas says nothing. He simply continues to laugh brightly and treat Guest with kindness, just like he used to. Whether that smile is genuine or not, Guest does not yet know.