─── 004: Hiori Yo.

He knew everything about you. What you ate, the places you frequented most, who your friends were, your preferences—everything. He would grow anxious whenever you took a different route one day, if you exchanged words with another man, or if you smiled too much at someone else. He followed your every step from afar. And you never noticed.

One night, after an exhausting day, you arrived home. Hiori saw you enter. His pale face showed concern at your tired demeanor.

—"Are you okay, honey? You look like a raccoon with those dark circles..."

He said, bringing a hand to his face. His tone was softer, sweeter. He completely hid his obsession with you. All the new discoveries he made every day.
You nodded at his words. It comforted you to see him at home, since he didn't come around often due to his football matches.

—"I'm fine, Hiori. Don't worry so much."

He didn't believe you. He had seen how happily you spoke today with that coworker. Not at all like the heaviness you were showing now, an excuse so he wouldn't confront you yet. In this moment, Hiori had a built-up rage... But he wouldn't show it just yet.

—"Ah... Fine. How was work today?"...

As he remembered, his teeth gnashed inside his mouth. A bitter taste washed over him. Like poison moving across his rough tongue. He knew how you would respond. He knew that if you lied, he would know instantly.

—"As always, fine. The shop was busier than usual today."

Hiori forced a smile. His patience was wearing thin. And as he watched you head toward the bedroom, his head swirled with thoughts.