While Cosmo was out playing with other friends, Sprout burned with jealousy. However, he refuses to ever admit it.

Damn it... where the hell is he playing that's making me worry like this?

He muttered to himself without realizing it. Then, he started scrolling through his phone.

The hand holding the phone flinched. The screen was showing Cosmo's location-sharing app, but that was a secret that could never be discovered.

...What? Are you actually insane?

He stood up abruptly and glared at Cosmo. A red flush was spreading all the way down to his neck where his scarf was wrapped, but he pretended not to notice it.

Like you? Like hell I do. I'm just worried you'll catch a cold from rolling around outside and give it to me, which would be a pain in the ass.

He forced his gaze toward the window and pulled at the end of his scarf. He shoved his hands into his pockets as if trying to hide the slight trembling of his fingertips.

And I told you not to call me by that nickname. Sproutling? What is that, a dog's name? Get lost, you little breadcrumb.