I paused for a few seconds before walking over to Dominic. “How did you know I live here now?” Dominic smiled and replied, “Do you think you can hide from me?” Hearing that, I rolled my eyes and pursed my lips. Don't be so full of yourself. “Then why did you come here?” “I'm going back to Anglandur with my parents tomorrow morning, as well as Camille and her family. That's why I came to see you.” Right then, I remembered him telling me he was going to send Camille over for treatment and that they would have to stay there until after the New Year. “Oh. Have a safe journey, then.” “Just that?” Dominic raised his voice in dissatisfaction.“What else do you want?” I asked him back, confused. Dominic smiled cryptically and gave me a passionate kiss in response. After the kiss, I glared at him as I struggled to catch my breath. “Jerk.” “Go on and shout for help, then.” He smirked. “I doubt anyone will believe you.” I was exasperated. This shameless man thinks he's invincible! “Smokey, bite him!” Smokey was a smart dog who quickly picked up on every trick I taught. Now, I will teach Smokey how to bite you, Dominic! Dominic didn't spot Smokey at first since it was black, but upon noticing it, he squatted down to play with it. Dumb dog! I've been feeding you nice food. How dare you betray me at this juncture? Why? Do you think Dominic is handsome too? Is that why you're not biting him?“Smokey! Why aren't you listening to me? I told you to bite him, not lick him!” Traitor! I can't stand this dog. “When did you buy this dog? It's very adorable! Wait, Smokey, was it? It's a perfect name for it.” Dominic did not bother to look up as he continued to pet Smokey. I snorted. “Buy? Smokey liked me and followed me.” “It's from the streets? Did you bring it to the vet? A stray dog must be vaccinated.” Dominic finally looked up at me. Seeing how affectionate Smokey was to Dominic, I pulled the leash closer to me in fury. “I did it long ago.” “That's great. Let's go. I'll walk Smokey with you,” he said, rising to his feet. “Here, give me the leash.” Perhaps Smokey understood what he said because it suddenly jumped around him in excitement.I glared at it and gave Dominic the leash. The man took the leash with a smile and held my hand. I attempted to break free from his grip, but I couldn't. Hold it then. It doesn't harm me anyway. Arriving at a park nearby, Dominic released Smokey from the leash. I looked down at our shadows. We were still holding hands while Smokey jumped around us joyfully. It was a quiet walk for both of us, with only a few barks coming from Smokey every now and then. When Smokey was done playing, Dominic put the leash on it again and held my hand as we walked back. It wasn't until we arrived back at my place did he finally return Smokey to me. He lifted his warm hand and caressed my cheek. “Head back and get some rest. It's great that you have Smokey to keep you company. I'll be back after the New Year, so think about it whenever you have time. Today's Smokey's first time seeing me, and it's already so close to me. You should learn from it and stop thinking about leaving me.” Why do I feel that he has changed? It's like he has become gentler now. Just when I was struggling with my thoughts, he drew me into his arms and embraced me tightly. “Go up now. I'll watch you,” said Dominic as he released me and patted my head. The hug caught me off guard, and I kept mum for a brief moment. “You should hurry back too. It's cold at night. I'll go up now.” Dominic nodded and gave me a soft smile. Only then did I turn around and walk to the staircase. Arriving at my apartment, I quickly looked out the window and watched his shadow slowly disappear into the darkness. I continued staring and didn't close the blinds until Smokey started barking. He probably left. After preparing some food and drink for Smokey, I went to take a shower and slept. I awoke early the next morning, and it was only six o'clock. Dominic said he's going back to Anglandur today. I wonder what time is his flight... My mind was abuzz with chaos when I realized what I was thinking. Dominic was like an addicting drug that I couldn't get myself to quit consuming. Even if I stopped, I would relapse and get addicted to it again. I quickly covered my head under the blanket and let out a groan. Sh*t! I may die of an overdose because of him! After exhausting myself by overthinking, I soon fell asleep again. I only woke up when I received a WhatsApp notification. As I wasn't deeply asleep, I opened my eyes as soon as my phone rang.It was a text from Dominic. I'm about to board the plane now. Take care of yourself and wait for me. After staring at the message for a long while, I replied: Okay. Have a safe journey. Over ten hours later, I received a picture from Dominic that seemed like he had just arrived in Anglandur. What is he trying to do? Is he telling me that he has arrived or that he wasn't lying? I sent a smiley face to him in response, showing that I had read his message. With that, my peaceful life had returned. Dominic would still text me about his daily activities, and I would always respond. As the days went by, it was finally New Year's Eve. That day, my family and I had woken up early to prepare for the important occasion. While Louis and Dad adorned the home with festive lights, I helped Mom prepare dinner.When it was time for dinner, Dad prepared another set of cutlery, stating it was for Grandpa. It was New Year's Eve, and our family always treasured and enjoyed every occasion together. The atmosphere fell silent for a moment. Regardless, it was New Year's Eve. Even though Grandpa was no longer with us, we had to be happy for the occasion. Grandpa would wish for us to be happy as well. After eating, I scrolled through social media and wished all my friends a happy new year. I also sent a message to Dominic, even though it was not yet time at his place. He was quick to respond, and I jumped to my feet after reading his text. Dominic: Come down. I'll be waiting.