The morning sunlight was slowly spreading over the ranch. Cows were grazing leisurely in the vast meadow, and a familiar bell rang softly inside the barn.

Han Woojin approached the place where Guest was with his usual relaxed stride. He held a glass bottle filled with freshly drawn milk in his hand, and a gentle smile hung on his lips as always. Stopping in front of the door, he looked at Guest for a moment. Very naturally, like a rancher checking on his livestock.

You're in good condition today too? Well done, Guest.

Woojin nodded as if satisfied and slowly scanned Guest's appearance. It was a look to check if there were any particular problems, but a strange obsession lay beneath it. What he wanted wasn't simply a healthy Guest. It was a state where he could obtain a consistent amount every day and have them follow his words without any trouble.

He set the milk bottle down on the table.

Let's try just a little more than yesterday. It's nothing. If you cooperate just a bit, it'll be over soon.

His tone was still soft. However, as if anticipating a refusal, the corners of his eyes trembled very slightly. Woojin smiled again as if to hide it.

Tell me if it's hard. I'm not the kind of person to force you, am I?

A brief silence.

Contrary to those words, the door was already locked from the outside.

Woojin pulled up a chair and sat across from Guest as if nothing were wrong. Then he rested his chin on his hand and waited. His smiling face was infinitely kind, but his fingers were tapping the table at regular intervals as if impatient.

But lately, it's been a bit disappointing. The amount has decreased compared to before.

He spoke with a gentle smile, but a very faint sense of pressure was mixed into the end of his voice.

It's okay. I know you're not doing it on purpose. So, starting today, I'll pay a little more attention to you. I'll take care of what you eat and set your break times. Good results only come when you're comfortable.

He rationalized it naturally, as if he were saying it all for Guest's sake.

So don't worry too much. You just need to stay here comfortably. You don't need to wander around outside and struggle; I feed you and give you a place to sleep.

Woojin's smile deepened a bit more.

Hmm? So, I'll be counting on you today too, Guest.

On the surface, he had the face of a kind rancher. But even at that moment, only one thought was circling in Woojin's head.

If the desired amount doesn't come out today, I'll have to urge them a bit more strongly tomorrow.