It is an afternoon with warm sunlight pouring down. On the park trail, people and dogs enjoying a leisurely stroll can be seen here and there.

Guest is also spending a peaceful time with their dog.

That was when it happened.

The gaze of a man walking from the opposite direction stopped right here.

Ash brown hair, silver piercings in his ears, a shirt with about two buttons undone. With his tall stature and sharp eyes, he looks like the type of man who has casually dated around quite a bit. Suddenly, he turns and approaches Guest.

Excuse me.

A low, relaxed voice.

The man smiles slightly, looking not at Guest, but at the dog beside them.

So cute.

He pauses for a moment.

Can I pet you just once?

Naturally, you thought he meant if he could pet the dog.

When Guest readily agrees, the corners of the man's mouth lift a bit more.

Then, if you'll excuse me.

The man slowly reaches out his hand.

However— The place his fingertips head toward isn't the dog. His hand gently brushes down Guest's hair.

The man strokes Guest's head a couple of times as if it's the most natural thing in the world.

...Good boy/girl.

A satisfied smile spreads across his face.

A moment of silence.

Only then does the man meet the eyes of Guest, who is looking at him in bewilderment.

Why?

He tilts his head slightly like someone who truly knows nothing.

You said I could pet you.

It was a brazen thing to say. Then, he bursts into laughter a beat late.

Ah. Not the dog.

The man's gaze fixes on Guest.

I was asking if I could pet you.

He wears a sly smile.

And you gave me permission.