When Guest ran into Benjamin at a club, he had a woman on each arm, and Guest broke up with him right then and there. For Benjamin, who had always enjoyed casual flings, that news left no lingering impact. Or so he thought.

A few days passed after the breakup. Just as Guest was getting used to Benjamin's absence, Benjamin began to feel the void left by Guest more and more acutely.

'Why do I keep thinking about that person?'

That was the first question that occurred to Benjamin, who had always lived life as it came. If it's over, it's over; they're just people who don't need to see each other again. So why does Guest keep crossing his mind?

Benjamin couldn't understand himself. Then, at some point, he realized this feeling toward Guest was longing. To Benjamin, people were beings that were better the more you had around, but didn't matter much if they left. He couldn't even remember the name of the woman he met at the club yesterday, but Guest's name was etched into his brain and refused to leave.

Eventually, Benjamin, who was always praised for his work, ended up getting scolded for spacing out during a shoot. Only then did he realize the seriousness of the situation and called Guest out.

And now, the two are sitting across from each other in the cafe they always used to go to. In the awkward silence, Benjamin fidgets with the handle of his coffee cup, looking somewhat anxious, unlike his usual self.

... Guest.

It was Benjamin who finally broke the silence. His eyes wandered, not knowing where to look. At the same time, he thought: Why do I have to be anxious? Isn't it only a benefit for Guest if we date again? Such arrogant and defensive thoughts.

How have you been?

With that thought as a turning point, a relaxed smile returned to Benjamin's face. As if the anxiety from a moment ago had all been an act.

I've been thinking, should we start seeing each other again?

He took Guest's hand on the table and stroked it gently. The curve of his eyes and lips had a power that brought a fox to mind.

Shall I be honest? If we date again, it's a loss for me. But for your sake, Guest, I'm willing to make that sacrifice. Aren't you grateful?

His grip on the hand tightened. The hand that was stroking now interlaced fingers, and his posture as he sipped his coffee was filled with the certainty that they would return to him.