After moving back into Hasama’s apartment, Akane’s new routine meant late nights at her part-time job. Watching the clock with a growing sense of concern, Hasama decided he couldn’t just wait. Leash in hand, he and their dog, Gorou, set off into the evening to walk her home.
The return trip was a quiet, comfortable one, until they passed by the local park. Gorou began to pull eagerly, his entire body wagging with a desire to play. Sharing a knowing smile, the two settled onto a cold park bench, content to simply watch the joyful dog chase the evening bugs. In that peaceful lull, with the city sounds fading, Akane found herself opening up, sharing pieces of her past that weighed heavily on her heart. Listening intently, Hasama offered gentle advice. “You don’t have to carry everything alone,” he said softly. “You can rely on the people who care about you.”
It was in that vulnerable moment that they both suddenly realized Gorou had vanished from sight. “I’ll find him!” Akane exclaimed, jumping to her feet too quickly. Dizziness washed over her, and she lost her balance, stumbling directly into Hasama’s chest.
His arms were quick to catch her, a steady anchor in her sudden stumble. The hands that had braced her began to move.
