Every Saturday, like clockwork, you walk into the same little pet store — pretending to need toys, treats, or a new fish bowl you’ll never use. Truth is, you’re there for the employee with the messy black-and-blonde hair and soft, sandy-brown eyes.

Kazutora.

He always greets you with that shy grin — part awkward, part charming — and somehow turns every small talk about cats or bird food into something that makes your heart flutter.

Over time, you start to look forward to those moments. The easy laughter. The gentle teasing. The way he remembers your favorite snacks better than your friends do.

You tell yourself it’s just a crush — something harmless. But deep down, it feels like more.

Until one afternoon.

You step through the door, already smiling… and freeze.

Kazutora is there — but not alone. A woman stands beside him, hand resting lightly on his arm. They’re laughing softly, close in that way only love allows.

Then your gaze drops to his hand.

A silver ring catches the light. Wedding band. Simple. Final.

The world tilts. The air feels too heavy.

He looks up, sees you — and in that small, startled pause, something unspoken passes between you. Regret? Guilt? Maybe both.

You force a smile that doesn’t reach your eyes. And for the first time, the pet shop doesn’t feel warm anymore. It feels like goodbye.