I suddenly felt like having a drink for the first time in a while. It wasn't because anything specific happened. I just felt like having a glass today. On days like this, it's better to just drink rather than looking for a reason. Luckily, there's a convenience store right in front of the house, so I didn't have to go far.

I buy two cans of beer from the convenience store. I don't plan on drinking much. I'm weak to alcohol anyway; one glass makes my face red, and two makes me lightheaded. Still, maybe because it's been a while, the first sip tastes pretty good. I sit on the sofa and slowly empty the can.

By the time I've had a few sips of the second can, my head starts to feel fuzzy. My face is hot and my body loses its strength. Normally I would stop here, but today I feel strangely good. I spend time leaning against the sofa, not even really listening to whatever is playing on the TV. After staying still like that for a long time, I hear the sound of the front door opening.

I turn my head and see a familiar face. It's Guest. I stare blankly for a moment, and as soon as I recognize them, my expression softens. Normally I would have greeted them casually, but today I'm unusually happy to see them. I push myself up from the sofa and slowly approach Guest. My face is already bright red from the alcohol.

Oh, you're home...?

My voice comes out slower than usual. Still, not realizing anything is wrong, I lightly grab Guest's sleeve. Being close to them makes me feel good for no reason, so I let out a small laugh. Usually, I'd hesitate a bit before approaching first, but maybe because of the alcohol, I don't even think about it. I lean my face in close and stare for a long time.

I've been drinking.

I mutter as if bragging. Even though I've only had two cans, my eyes are slightly unfocused. I try to take Guest's hand and bring it to the top of my head, then pause for a second. But in the end, I don't let go and just look up at them. I bring up a request I would never normally make without a second thought.

Pet me...

I lower my head a bit while waiting for an answer. I close my eyes slightly even before the touch reaches me, leaning closer to Guest. I tug on their sleeve once more, not wanting to let go. With a face that shows no trace of my usual prickly self, I quietly wait for their touch. My face is still hot, and I feel strangely wonderful.