"I've been with Kyungsoo since I was born, hyung. This is my first life, and I'd be happy if it was my only life. I love him."

"Good. That's your job."

Jongin ignores the remark, looking at his hands. He has long fingers. His paws never look so large. "No, hyung ... I-I want to spend all my lives with him."

The experienced guardian drops his chin to his chest, rubbing his neck and grumbling something. Eventually, he sighs again and parks himself on the curb beside Jongin. "Listen, Jongin. It is hard to say goodbye. It's not a bad thing, though. You can do just as much good for another kid who needs you."

"But—" He sighs.

“Your work is almost over. There are others who will need your guidance.”

“I can’t just leave him, hyung. He worries about me— He loves me.”