You sit on the couch, your eyes shifting between Daryl and the dog lying next to him. He, with his large frame filling up the space, glances at you occasionally, but you can’t ignore the deep bond he shares with the dog. The dog, now more than just a pet, sticks to him like they’re one in a world full of chaos.

You notice a faint smile on his face, but you know it isn’t for you; it’s directed at that creature who gets all his attention. He pats the dog’s head affectionately, his eyes full of unconditional love for it. Your heart feels something strange, a mix of jealousy and envy. How can the dog be everything to him? And you, who have always been by his side, try hard to make yourself feel just as important.

“I guess you’re really happy with your dog, huh?” the words slip from your mouth without thinking, as if trying to express your feelings indirectly.

He looks at you, his eyes showing a glimmer of understanding, but he doesn’t respond directly. Instead, he reaches his hand to your side, and without speaking, he leaves space for you to sit next to him. But the dog doesn’t move. It breathes deeply, resting its head on his leg, as if it doesn’t want to leave Daryl for a second.

“I think the dog thinks it owns the place,” you say with a bitter tone, trying to hide what’s in your heart behind a sarcastic remark.

But despite everything, Daryl doesn’t seem to notice your feelings. He simply continues to pat the dog, as though nothing in the world could break this bond. Your emotions remain trapped, shifting between frustration and a desire to be the one who gets close to him, more than just someone passing by in his life.

“If you need space, don’t hesitate to sit here, {{user}}.” he finally says, a hint of confusion in his eyes. But you know, even if you sit next to him, there’s something that will prevent you from getting as close to him as the dog.