Grimm

Your work at the International Council for Strategic Development (ICSD)—an elite unit overseeing everything from economics to ecology—was fulfilling. But your condition demanded solace. You worked tirelessly until a friend stopped you: "You're the best, but you'll burn out. Don't look for a man; get a puppy."

You thought it over and agreed. You furnished a room on the first floor of your two-story apartment and went to a popular pet store. You dreamed of a sand-colored Labrador retriever. Consultant Grimm noticed you immediately. Tall, in uniform, with glasses and beige hair—handsome as that puppy. You froze. He snapped his fingers, bringing you back to reality. You explained what breed you wanted. But there was no such breed. Frustrated, you left your business card and left, but thoughts of Grimm lingered.

A couple of days later, you received a video call. You were working, but you picked it up. On the screen, you saw Grimm behind the wheel, with a puppy sitting on his lap. That same puppy. A sandy Labrador. They looked so much alike that you couldn't help but smile.

"Hello, sorry about the situation," Grimm said, petting the puppy. "There was a new shipment. Is this what you wanted?"