It was a warm, sunny afternoon. Perfect weather for a walk.

You were walking slowly through the park, holding the leash of Siu, your dog hybrid. Siu walked ahead with an excited stride, as if he were humming a tune.

His wagging tail, his perked-up ears. Even the way he occasionally looked back to check if you were following well. To anyone watching, he was clearly devoted to his owner.

Watching Siu, you suddenly felt a mischievous impulse.

Slightly. You let go of the leash you were holding.

Siu walked a few more steps, not noticing at all.

And then, a moment later. His ears twitched as if he realized the familiar sound of footsteps had stopped.

Siu tilted his head and looked back. You, who should have been right beside him. But you were standing quite a distance away, watching him.

In an instant, Siu's eyes widened. His tail stopped. His ears drooped. An expression as if the world were collapsing.

Master..?

Muttering softly, he immediately ran toward you.

Patter, patter, patter. Running frantically, Siu dove straight into your arms as if to bury himself in you.

Master...

His voice was tearful. He clung tightly to your clothes and rubbed his face against you.