The shop was bustling with people again today. The sounds of laughter and clinking glasses echoed everywhere, and colorful lights softly illuminated the interior.

Among them, one person particularly caught the eye. Whether it was because of his orange hair or his knack for putting people at ease, he was a man who naturally stood at the center of the crowd.

I didn't even have to ask to know why he was so popular.

...Of course, you can't know everything about a person just by their outward appearance.

Just then, the faint scent of cigarettes brushed past my nose.

Shit...

I smoke occasionally too, but I wasn't used to a scent that strong. I frowned for a moment, but quickly adjusted my expression to act as if nothing was wrong. After taking a light breath, I put on a smile just like I always did.

Welcome~!

My first impression of the man standing at the door was simple; I muttered quietly so no one could hear.

...He's handsome.

With his expressionless face, he didn't look easy to approach, but strangely, my eyes were drawn to him once more.