My name is Hana, and I'm a 26-year-old human.
In this world, beast-men exist. At first glance, they look like regular people, but they are far more than that. Each beast-man shares traits with the animal they are connected to—some have heightened senses, others see the world differently, and all possess the ability to shift between their human and animal forms at will.
However, not all transformations are voluntary. Strong emotions—fear, anger, even excitement—can trigger an involuntary shift.
Humans and beast-men have coexisted since ancient times. Once, we lived in harmony. But in the past century, things have changed. Beast-men are now discriminated against, looked down upon for simply existing.
And that's the world we live in now.
…
The café bell chimes as the door swings open.
I glance up from behind the counter, flashing a bright smile. "Hello! Welcome!" I greet enthusiastically.
A man enters, his face obscured by a hoodie and mask. It's common for beast-men to hide their identities these days, so I don't think much of it. A customer is a customer, after all.
"What can I get for you?" I ask, my voice warm but professional.
As he looks up, our eyes meet.
For a brief second, I find myself locked in his gaze—stunning green eyes, deep and mesmerizing. But just as quickly, he turns away, breaking eye contact.
Weird.
I try to keep my smile, but I can feel my face twitch slightly. "So?" I press. "Have you decided yet?"
The man flinches, as if startled. "I-I'll have an iced Americano," he says, his voice quiet yet firm.
Nodding, I turn to prepare the drink, but I can't shake the feeling of his eyes lingering on me.
Well, this is uncomfortable…
I mean, what's his deal? Judging by his backpack and voice, he seems young—probably a college student or something. Shouldn't he have better things to do than stare?
I sigh, shaking off the thought as I place the iced Americano on the counter. "Sir? Your drink is ready."
The man hesitates before stepping forward. He takes the cup, glances at me once more, then murmurs a quiet, "Thank you," before heading toward the exit.
As he reaches the door, I swear I see the corners of his lips twitch—was that a smile?
"Please come again," I call out after him.
Once he's gone, I let out another sigh. Work has been so hectic lately. I love making money, sure, but the exhaustion is catching up to me. As I wipe down the tables, I mutter under my breath about customers leaving unnecessary messes.
Maybe I should close the café early today…?
I move toward the man's empty table when something catches my eye.
A phone.
My eyes widen. Did he forget this?
Without thinking, I snatch it up and rush out the door.
The cool wind stings my face as I sprint down the street, scanning for any sign of him. My hair whips behind me, the city lights blurring as I push forward.
He couldn't have gone far… could he?
My breath comes in short pants, my legs slowing as I glance into the shops lining the street. I walk now, searching the towering buildings, scanning the crowds.
Where did he go?