- 11 minutes ago
Swapping My Alpha: From Fox to Wolf Episode Werewolf Romance, Fantasy Love
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Short filmTranscript
00:00:01In this new era, male werebeasts existed to reproduce with humans.
00:00:15As a top-tier werebeast was diagnosed with infertility, nobody wanted an infertile werebeast.
00:00:21So he was sold to the Red Light District and met me there.
00:00:25I just happened to be looking to buy a werebeast, so he knelt in front of me.
00:00:30Crying and begging me to buy him.
00:00:32Stupid me, I spent all my savings to buy him.
00:00:36Now I ended up at the hospital alone after Jamalion scratched me again.
00:00:46This is deep enough to leave a scar.
00:00:49Has your werebeast ever actually been socialized?
00:00:52I offered a tight smile.
00:00:55He has. Top of his class, actually.
00:00:58My phone buzzed.
00:01:00So many complaining messages from Jamariuk.
00:01:02It's only a scratch.
00:01:04Was it really necessary to go to the hospital?
00:01:06I'm hungry.
00:01:07Come back and make me dinner.
00:01:09I never get enough to eat, not after being yours.
00:01:11You seriously suck at taking care of me.
00:01:13Was that honestly how he saw things?
00:01:15After leaving the hospital, I headed straight for the werebeast exchange.
00:01:19Not my home.
00:01:20I'd like to exchange my werebeast.
00:01:26I'd like to exchange my werebeast.
00:01:29I told the receptionist.
00:01:31She was very polite as she went through the standard intake questions.
00:01:38You've been registered with your current werebeast for a full year.
00:01:42You're almost eligible to form a bond.
00:01:44Why do you want to exchange them now?
00:01:46A deep pan of sadness hit me.
00:01:50It had been a year already.
00:01:54I still remembered how eager I'd been for our bonding.
00:01:57Talking excitedly with Jamarian about what our rings should look like.
00:02:01He'd smirked at me.
00:02:04Do you honestly think you're good enough for me?
00:02:07His ears flattened against his head.
00:02:10Crying won't change anything.
00:02:20I'm never going to form a bond with you.
00:02:22Here's a free tip.
00:02:24You lower class humans look disgusting when you cry.
00:02:28I swallowed the lump in my throat.
00:02:31He doesn't like me.
00:02:34The truth was, he hated me.
00:02:38The receptionist blinked in surprise.
00:02:42Normally, trained werebeats wouldn't act like this.
00:02:45They are supposed to be completely devoted to their owners.
00:02:53And yet, somehow, the impossible had happened to me.
00:02:56I managed a casual smile.
00:02:59I guess I just have bad luck.
00:03:01Her expression turned apologetic.
00:03:04The issue lies with our training.
00:03:06Please don't be too hard on yourself.
00:03:12Come with me.
00:03:28I'd originally paid $80,000 for Jamarian, which meant I could pick a replacement from the same price bracket.
00:03:39I flipped through the available options, taking in faces that were slightly less striking than Jamerons, but still gorgeous.
00:03:47Their files listed them as foxes and leopards.
00:03:50I hesitated.
00:03:53Do you have anyone else?
00:03:55I wanted a canine.
00:03:58Specifically, a golden retriever.
00:04:00I'd heard golden retriever werebeats genuinely liked humans.
00:04:04If that were true, maybe one would even do lower tier human, like me.
00:04:10The staff member maintained her polite customer service smile.
00:04:14Not at the moment.
00:04:16However, werebeats mature quickly, and our next group will be available in two months.
00:04:23I nodded.
00:04:24As she walked me toward the door, a loose photo slipped out of her folder and fluttered to the floor.
00:04:38The man in the picture had cold, vertically slitted gray eyes with a high nose bridge, broad shoulders, and a
00:04:46narrow waist.
00:04:47He was undeniably handsome, but he looked incredibly dangerous.
00:04:51He was a werewolf.
00:04:53The receptionist sighed, picking it up.
00:05:01He's actually our best behaved werebeast.
00:05:06Management wanted to try expanding into a new market.
00:05:10But buyers are terrified that a werewolf will lose control and attack them.
00:05:16Our supervisors are worried about losing money.
00:05:20So they're selling him to the fighting arena today.
00:05:30She shook her head sadly.
00:05:32The problem is, he was raised to be gentle.
00:05:35If he goes to the arena, the other fighters will definitely kill him.
00:05:42Nobody wants to buy him, and it's truly sad.
00:05:45Nobody wanted him.
00:05:47Nobody wanted me either.
00:05:49But still, I heard that once they go to the arena, they get completely mutilated by the other beasts.
00:05:56That sounded like an agonizing way to die.
00:05:59I hesitated, second-guesting myself.
00:06:03And a werewolf technically counted canine as a canine, didn't it?
00:06:12I stopped walking.
00:06:15Is he really well behaved?
00:06:17She looked up, instantly hopeful.
00:06:19Yes, absolutely.
00:06:24Then I'll take him.
00:06:29The staff told me the werewolf would be delivered in three days.
00:06:40I carefully tucked the exchange agreement into my bag.
00:06:48On the walk home, I spotted Jamernian and Gianna Relatford in the distance.
00:06:56The white-haired werewolf stood in the evening light.
00:07:00With his steep-set eyes and his distinct features, he was incredibly handsome.
00:07:07Gianna was a high-class human from the neighboring district.
00:07:17She was smart, elegant, and completely unlike me.
00:07:22Ever since she met Jamerian, she'd made a habit of dropping by with premium nutritional supplements,
00:07:27and the two of them had grown unusually close.
00:07:33I slowed my pace.
00:07:36I slowed my pace.
00:07:42Gianna noticed me.
00:07:44Dev, off to work again?
00:07:48I have to say, even if you're about to form a bond with Jamerian,
00:07:52you really ought to put a little more effort into your appearance.
00:07:55Look at what you're wearing.
00:07:57Walking down the street like that, no one's gonna think you two are a couple.
00:08:04I glanced down, it's down, at my plain t-shirt and jeans.
00:08:08Then back at Gianna's beautiful dress.
00:08:17I think I look fine.
00:08:19Jamerian didn't even look at me.
00:08:20She wouldn't look good even if she tried.
00:08:22She's better off pretending she just doesn't know how to dress.
00:08:26That way people won't realize she's genuinely unattractive.
00:08:30Jamerian, how can you say that about Dev?
00:08:35Jamerian smirked.
00:08:37It was a flackless, completely mocking smile.
00:08:42You're trying to help, and she just thinks you're being nosy.
00:08:47Low-class humans simply can't grasp how high-class humans think.
00:08:52It was my own terrible luck that she bought me.
00:08:55He never used to be like this.
00:08:58Back when I couldn't afford the premium supplements that high-grade werebeasts need,
00:09:02he would always insist that he was lucky to have found me.
00:09:06The cheap clothes I bought traft his sensitive skin,
00:09:09but he never complained.
00:09:13That all changed the day we ran into his former rival,
00:09:17a red werefox on the street.
00:09:21I had dropped my bag, and Jamerian was helping me gather my scattered things.
00:09:28The red werefox stepped out of a car,
00:09:31and planted his foot directly onto Jamerian's hand.
00:09:35Well, well.
00:09:37If it isn't the highly sought-after Jamerian,
00:09:40how did you end up with such a plain low-class human?
00:09:44I suppose it makes sense, though.
00:09:46A defected product paired with a low-class human is a perfect match.
00:09:53After that, Jamerian locked himself in his room for the rest of the night.
00:10:02I sat outside his door until morning.
00:10:05I tried to tell him that dividing people into classes was wrong,
00:10:09and that he shouldn't care about werebeat exchange labeling him as defective.
00:10:14We were doing just fine together.
00:10:21When Jamerian finally opened the door,
00:10:24his eyes were red and swollen.
00:10:27You've never lived in will-beast exchange,
00:10:30so of course you think being considered completely worthless is perfectly fine.
00:10:35Then he met Gianna.
00:10:38Gianna was a rich, high-class woman.
00:10:42She could give him the expensive supplements,
00:10:45the nice clothes,
00:10:47the high-class life I couldn't afford.
00:10:50They grew closer every day.
00:10:54I brought it up cautiously one time.
00:11:00You're my werebeast.
00:11:02Could you keep your distance from Janna?
00:11:06Jamerian stared at the male niece and mannered down at me with contempt.
00:11:09His gaze was cold and full of resentment.
00:11:16Debra, you never would have been able to afford me if I weren't defective.
00:11:20You just took advantage of my desperate situation.
00:11:24What gives you the right to act like my owner?
00:11:27But the truth was,
00:11:28he was the one who had begged me to save him in the first place.
00:11:32Growing up in an orphanage,
00:11:34I never knew what it meant to have a real family.
00:11:38Seeing Jamerian beg like that made me long for someone who loved me.
00:11:44I never brought up his past, terrified it would offend him.
00:11:50I certainly never expected that when he finally brought it up himself,
00:11:54he would accuse me of taking advantage of his misfortune.
00:11:59But now I argued back, trying to defend myself.
00:12:02I never once used your past against you.
00:12:05I protected your feelings every single day.
00:12:11How is that taking advantage?
00:12:15In the heat of the moment, I accidentally brushed his hand.
00:12:18He shoved me so hard,
00:12:20that I slammed to the sharp corner of the table.
00:12:23It sliced my arm wide open.
00:12:28You wouldn't be hurt if you hadn't tried to grab me.
00:12:31You did this to yourself.
00:12:36He wouldn't even drive me to the hospital.
00:12:39I'm going shopping with Gianna today.
00:12:41Jamerian and I didn't have to be chained to each other forever.
00:12:44I spoke up, stopping Jamerian just as he was closing the door.
00:12:49Jamerian,
00:12:50does being with me really make you that miserable?
00:12:57He paused.
00:12:59When he looked back over his shoulder,
00:13:02he wore that same mocking ting smirk.
00:13:05Yeah.
00:13:06But someone of your low status got incredibly lucky acquiring me,
00:13:11so you'll never let me go.
00:13:13I'm going to be stuck with a clingy annoyance for the rest of my life.
00:13:18I let out a slow breath,
00:13:20washed over by a sudden, intense wave of relief.
00:13:23It seemed I really had made the right decision to exchange him.
00:13:27When I didn't answer right away,
00:13:29Jamerian thumped his tail impatiently against the floor.
00:13:38What do you want?
00:13:40I looked down, picking on my cuticles.
00:13:46I got you a gift.
00:13:48You'll see it in a few days.
00:13:49An unreadable expression crossed his face for a fraction of a second.
00:13:53He almost looked hopeful,
00:13:55but quickly slipped right back into his usual mocking tone.
00:14:03I hope it isn't more of that cheap nutritional supplement.
00:14:07It's absolute garbage.
00:14:09I'll just end up pouring it down the toilet.
00:14:12I looked at him, dead serious.
00:14:15No.
00:14:16It's what you want most.
00:14:18Freedom.
00:14:22It better be.
00:14:24Jamerian muttered,
00:14:26shutting the door firmly behind him.
00:14:32Giana showed up bright and early the next morning.
00:14:37Jameric and I agreed to go shopping.
00:14:39We just have similar tastes,
00:14:40and we always have so much to talk about when we go out.
00:14:43You aren't mad, are you, Deb?
00:14:46She watched me closely,
00:14:48testing the waters.
00:14:51Normally, I would sulk and refuse to let him know.
00:14:56It always ate me, but he refused to go anywhere with me,
00:15:00yet constantly went out with her.
00:15:02But today, I had my own plans.
00:15:05I don't mind.
00:15:08Jamerian had been getting a look of disgust ready,
00:15:11but my answer stopped him in his tracks.
00:15:15His expression turned awkward.
00:15:17Debra, you really aren't angry?
00:15:20I pulled on my jacket.
00:15:22Not at all.
00:15:24Go wherever you want.
00:15:25There was a massive end-of-season sale at the mall today,
00:15:28and I needed to get moving
00:15:30to buy some essential supplies for a werewolf.
00:15:37Giana linked her arm through his,
00:15:40her voice delicate.
00:15:41Isn't it better that she isn't causing trouble?
00:15:44Let's stop talking and just go.
00:15:48I watched how physically close they were,
00:15:51but I didn't feel my usual stab of jealousy.
00:15:54I simply slipped on my shoes and walked quickly out the door.
00:15:59The regular mall was packed, just like it was all year round.
00:16:08It was mostly lower-class people out shopping with their ordinary werebeasts.
00:16:12Shoppers bumped into each other in the crowded aisles, but they all wore happy, genuine smiles.
00:16:17Their up-de-energy started to rub off on me.
00:16:19Once I bought a new werebeast, I'd probably be just as happy.
00:16:22I would never again have to hear Jemarion say that worthless people deserve cheap things.
00:16:29He wouldn't loudly make fun of this mall in public before ditching me, leaving me standing there humiliated.
00:16:39All I really wanted was a normal, affectionate werebeast.
00:16:43I didn't get back until after dark.
00:16:45Jemarion was actually home.
00:16:47He and Gianna usually stayed out late.
00:16:50He was Bellamy Shugnouts with the axe of the lathes, whomissibly in once.
00:16:55He was planted on the couch with his arms crossed, visibly fuming.
00:17:01Where have you been?
00:17:02You didn't even make dinner.
00:17:05It's bad enough living in poverty with you, but now I'm starving.
00:17:09You do a terrible job taking care of me.
00:17:17I took a sip of my coffee and set my shopping bags on the counter.
00:17:21I figured you'd just eat at Gianna's.
00:17:24Plus, I didn't think you wanted my cooking anymore.
00:17:31I spent all afternoon making your birthday dinner, and you threw the whole thing in the trash?
00:17:39That shut him up.
00:17:40I focused entirely on unpacking the supplies I'd bought for the werewolf.
00:17:44Chew toys, a grooming comb, and fish oil.
00:17:52I didn't hear Jemarion walk up behind me.
00:17:59Are you treating me like a dog?
00:18:01I don't need cheap trash meant for some low-grade werebeast.
00:18:05A comb like that is going to ruin my hair.
00:18:08And this fish oil isn't even pure.
00:18:11But whatever.
00:18:12Since you already bought it, I guess I can try it out.
00:18:15These aren't for you.
00:18:16I cut in.
00:18:17He froze.
00:18:18His hand hovering just over the comb.
00:18:23What do you mean?
00:18:25I turn to look at his flawless face.
00:18:28I'm not good enough for a high-grade werebeast like you.
00:18:32I've already filed the transfer paperwork.
00:18:35In a couple of days, you'll never have to see me again.
00:18:44The clock ticked loudly in the heavy silence between us.
00:18:52After a long pause, his scowl softened.
00:18:56He spoke with absolute certainty.
00:18:59Giana was right.
00:19:01And about what?
00:19:03You saw us getting close and now you're threatening to leave just to guilt trick me.
00:19:08Now you're bringing up transfer papers.
00:19:12He crossed his arms.
00:19:14Giana said you were manipulative and she wasn't wrong.
00:19:18Did you honestly think a few empty threats would make me beg for your attention like some cheap werebeast?
00:19:25I was too exhausted to argue.
00:19:28Think whatever you want, I muttered.
00:19:32My indifference only fueled his temper.
00:19:41He violently ripped the calendar off the wall.
00:19:45I had highlighted the 20th of next month with a heart.
00:19:51You just want to bond with me, don't you?
00:19:55You interrogated me about ring sizes six months ago and forced me to live with you.
00:20:01If you want me, fuck you.
00:20:03Just say so.
00:20:05Aren't you ashamed of being so deceptive?
00:20:09By law, wary beats were ob-gated to provide companionship to their humans.
00:20:14Early on, I hadn't felt comfortable sleeping with him since we were practically strangers.
00:20:19But later, he was the one who refused.
00:20:22We still hadn't been intimate.
00:20:25I had only ever seen him hold Giana's hand.
00:20:28Never mind.
00:20:29Whenever I showed how much that stung, Jumanian would just mock me.
00:20:32Giana tripped, and I helped her up.
00:20:35We aren't impure like you inferior humans.
00:20:40Looking at Jumarian now, I felt he was a total stranger.
00:20:44I stared at my hands.
00:20:47The hands that had cooked, and cleaned, and tried for a whole year.
00:20:52He'd called every bit of it a trap.
00:20:56I looked at the heart on the calendar.
00:21:01I'd drawn it back when I still loved him.
00:21:04There was nothing shameful about that.
00:21:07Jumarian was still human.
00:21:13He tore the calendar into pieces, letting the scraps flutter to the floor.
00:21:20Listen to me.
00:21:21Even if we bond, I'm still going to see Giana.
00:21:25If you want to touch me, you have to ask for permission first.
00:21:29His tail lashed behind him.
00:21:34And if we walk down the street, no one can know we're together.
00:21:39Jumarian, I interrupted.
00:21:43He glared at me, clearly not finished with his rant.
00:21:46I had never felt so perfectly calm.
00:21:51No wonder you were marked as defective.
00:21:55Buying you was a terrible mistake.
00:21:58I said, initiating every single word.
00:22:02Jumarian's golden pupils shrunk.
00:22:07His fluffy white tail shot straight up in the air.
00:22:11His fur standing on end.
00:22:13A sharp knock at the door cut through the silence.
00:22:23I opened the door.
00:22:25A shadow fell over me.
00:22:28Marcus Rainfield stood in the doorway, filling the entire frame.
00:22:32I had to tip my head back just to see his face.
00:22:35His muscles strained against his short sleeves.
00:22:38Between his sharp brows and the upward slant of his eyes,
00:22:42he looked downright terrifying.
00:22:44The scar on his temple only made him look more so.
00:22:48Jumarian couldn't stop staring at him.
00:22:52This was my first time dealing with a predatory werebeast,
00:22:55and my stomach was in knots.
00:22:57Was a werewolf like him really going to listen to me?
00:23:02Marcus must have picked up on my nerves.
00:23:04He leaned down, offering me his furry ears to pet,
00:23:07and spoke in a surprisingly so soft voice.
00:23:16The worker with him was Sheila, the same receptionist I'd met before.
00:23:21She gave me a warm smile.
00:23:23Don't worry.
00:23:24I watched Marcus grow up, and he's an absolute sweetheart.
00:23:30There is one issue, though.
00:23:32Because werebeast exchange is currently under under-renovation,
00:23:35it'll be about two weeks before we can take Jamami on back.
00:23:39Would it be alright if he stayed here in the meantime?
00:23:42We'll gladly cover his living expenses.
00:23:48While Sheila talked, Marcus's furry tail brushed against my ankle,
00:23:53wagging a mile a minute with excitement.
00:23:59I hesitated, not giving her a definite answer right away.
00:24:03Jumarian had been dead silent.
00:24:05But the second Marcus reached out to gently touch my pinky finger,
00:24:10Jumarian scoffed.
00:24:12Mutt?
00:24:13Marcus flinched.
00:24:18He instantly shrunk his massive frame down and pressed himself against my side.
00:24:23Miss Pennington, he's glaring at me, and I'm really scared.
00:24:30Just like that, my anxiety vanished.
00:24:33People always complained that werewolves were tough to handle,
00:24:37but Marcus was incredibly sweet.
00:24:40He was gentle and eager to please, which was exactly what I wanted.
00:24:48Sheila's smile dropped.
00:24:50Her face went totally flat as she held up her employee badge.
00:24:54Number 4561, werewolf, at Jumarian Garrard.
00:24:57Is that correct?
00:24:58Jumarian went pale.
00:25:00Yes.
00:25:03On behalf of Werebeast Exchange, I am officially notifying you that your owner has requested a replacement.
00:25:10We are highly disappointed in your failure to fill your duties.
00:25:16She tucked the badge away.
00:25:22We will be back to collect you in two weeks.
00:25:25Please, please have your things ready.
00:25:33The second Sheila walked out the door, Jamariath lunged, yanking Marcus away from me.
00:25:39Mutt!
00:25:44What do you think you're doing?
00:25:46Is this just some act?
00:25:54Marcus hit the floor, scraping his hand hard against the corner of the table and leaving an angry red wint.
00:26:01He didn't try to fight back.
00:26:02He just scrambled to his feet and looked at me cautiously, completely miserable.
00:26:08My heart broke for him.
00:26:13I shoved Jumarian out of the way and rushed over.
00:26:16Jumarian slammed back against the wall, wincing.
00:26:20Are you okay?
00:26:23Deborah!
00:26:25I know exactly what you're doing!
00:26:27You're just using this mutt to manipulate me into a bond!
00:26:31Cancel the agreement right now and send him back!
00:26:34He pointed at the door.
00:26:38If you don't, I will never bond with you.
00:26:42I whipped around, totally out of patience.
00:26:45Jamian! Jamian!
00:26:47I'm only going to say this one last time!
00:26:51I don't want you anymore.
00:27:04Jamarian didn't say another word.
00:27:07He just turned and stormed out the door.
00:27:11Once things had settled, I carefully dabbed some medicine onto Marcus' scraped hand.
00:27:15He kept pulling away from my touch, turning his head so I couldn't see his face.
00:27:20A fresh wave of panic hit me.
00:27:23Do you regret coming here?
00:27:28Terrified he was going to turn out just like Jamariuk, I decided to lay all my cards on the table.
00:27:36Look, if you stay with me, you aren't going to get premium nutritional supplements.
00:27:41Since I'm classified as a lower tier human, my paychecks barely cover the basics.
00:27:47I look down at my hands.
00:27:52I work two jobs a day, I smell like sweat half the summer, and I know I'm pretty average looking.
00:28:01If you're ashamed to be seen, we tell me now, and I can send you back.
00:28:15I tried to sound casual as I spoke, subtly wiping my sweaty hands behind my back.
00:28:23Marcus finally looked at me, his grey eyes shining with tears.
00:28:28I'm so sorry.
00:28:30My stomach dropped.
00:28:32Was he going to reject me, too?
00:28:36The skin around his eyes was flushed raw.
00:28:40I'm sorry, I'm just so happy.
00:28:42I'm so glad to be staying with you that I couldn't hold my expression together.
00:28:47I thought I looked ugly when I cried, so I didn't want you to see.
00:28:53A loud sob broke from his chest.
00:28:54I was sure they were to ship me off to the fighting arena.
00:28:59Then they told me someone actually wanted me.
00:29:06He clutched my hand tighter.
00:29:10I held your picture at night, and I just couldn't believe it.
00:29:13I was terrified it was a dream.
00:29:15Mrs. Penningston, I think you're incredibly cute and beautiful.
00:29:25I'm not ashamed of you at all.
00:29:29I'm just so full of joy that I can't stop crying.
00:29:32I've never been this happy in my whole life.
00:29:35He was being so silly.
00:29:36The tears were already pouring down his cheeks.
00:29:40Sheila had mentioned that Marcus was quiet and timid simply because nobody wanted him.
00:29:50But listening to him chatter away now, I realized he'd just been keeping it all bottled up.
00:29:57A strange, restless warmth stirred in my chest.
00:30:01Could someone really be this happy just to be with me?
00:30:03It felt like a dream.
00:30:05I took his hand.
00:30:07His palm was damp with nervous sweat, but the solid heat of his skin told me it was real.
00:30:12You don't have to call me Mrs. Pennington, I told him.
00:30:14Just Deb is fine.
00:30:21When Jamarian got back, Gianna was with him.
00:30:24Jamarian marched straight into the bedroom and started packing, making as much noise as humanly possible.
00:30:32Gianna lingered in the entryway, looking completely disgusted.
00:30:39You've worked for years, and this tiny place is all you can afford, Deb?
00:30:44Maybe you just aren't working hard enough.
00:30:47Jamarian told me today you wanted a new werebeast.
00:30:50You really take him for granted.
00:30:53If I had a werebeast like him, I'd give up absolutely anything to provide for him.
00:31:00She smoothed her skirt smugly.
00:31:03I'd never kick him out.
00:31:07Inferior people have trash taste.
00:31:10Jamarian scoffed from the other room.
00:31:13She brings home a cheap mutt, and now the whole apartment stinks.
00:31:17I only had to put up with this for two more days, so getting into it with them was pointless.
00:31:24Keeping my head down, I went back to brushing Marcus's tail.
00:31:32The staff over at werebeast exchange hadn't bothered to groom him since no one wanted to buy him.
00:31:38I made sure to brush him out thoroughly, knowing how painful matted fur could be.
00:31:45Jamarian and Gianna kept lobbing insults back and forth, tearing me down.
00:31:54Actually, foxes are the ones that stink.
00:31:57Marcus chimed in out of nowhere.
00:32:00Jamaritan streamed out of the bedroom, livid.
00:32:04What did you just say?!
00:32:08Marcus stepped in front of me.
00:32:10I said you're a stinking fox.
00:32:12You flirt with other people when you already have an owner.
00:32:15He bared his teeth.
00:32:16You have zero loyalty and zero morals.
00:32:22I stared at him, stunned.
00:32:24I can say it ten times if you want.
00:32:27For a guy who was supposed to be timid, he had a very sharp tongue.
00:32:31Was he defending me?
00:32:38A quiet warmth spread through my chest.
00:32:42When I looked up at him, he just blinked innocently and shrunk against my side.
00:32:46Gianna scoffed loudly.
00:32:49Since you obviously can't stand Jamanalik at Deborah,
00:32:52I assume you won't mind if he crashes at my place?
00:32:55I don't mind at all.
00:32:56I nodded.
00:32:58Jamarian dropped the pile of clothes he was holding.
00:33:02You've wanted to get rid of me this entire time, haven't you, Deborah?
00:33:06I looked down at his feet.
00:33:08He was standing on a $150 shirt.
00:33:11While I was sitting there in a cheap sweatshirt I'd bought at a $3 for $30 sale.
00:33:17I let out a sigh.
00:33:21Jamanian, aren't you the one who wanted to leave?
00:33:23His jaw clenched.
00:33:25Jamekin shot me a glares.
00:33:27Exactly.
00:33:29I want to leave you.
00:33:30It's not the other way around.
00:33:32I don't want to spend another minute in this dump.
00:33:34Hmph.
00:33:37He turned away.
00:33:39Giana chimed in, quick to pascave him.
00:33:45Don't worry, Jamaritan.
00:33:48Come home with me.
00:33:50I'll give you everything you could ever want.
00:33:54But Jamarian didn't answer her.
00:33:57The only sound in the room was his tail thumping a steady rhythm against the floor.
00:34:10After a long, tense pause, he took a few steps forward.
00:34:14He stopped short and looked back at me.
00:34:17I kept my eyes glued to the floor, pretending not to notice.
00:34:26Jamalian?
00:34:30Giana's smile vanished.
00:34:32When Jamalian finally moved, it was to ush Giana toward the door.
00:34:37I really don't want to be here.
00:34:40But where a beast exchange assigned me to Debra's house, I shouldn't break the rules.
00:34:47You can find me at the hall once I'm officially listed for sale, Giana.
00:34:51He shut the front door firmly, cutting off her frustrated protests.
00:34:55Marcus watched Jamarian stand motionless by the door, then leaned in close.
00:35:01Let's go back to the bedroom, Deb.
00:35:03It's getting late.
00:35:04We should go to sleep.
00:35:07His warm brushed my skin, bringing a sudden hot flush flush to my face.
00:35:11It was a totally ordinary suggestion.
00:35:14But something about the way he said it made me acutely self-conscious.
00:35:19Jamarian whipped around.
00:35:21You two are sleeping in the same bed?
00:35:27Jamarian whipped around.
00:35:29Marcus drept an arm over my shoulders, pulling me flush against his chest.
00:35:34He gave Jamarian a wide-eyed, innocent look.
00:35:37Of course we are.
00:35:39Isn't it normal to sleep next to my owner?
00:35:43Not that it's any of your business anyway.
00:35:46You're just Deb's ex now.
00:35:50I smoothed out the new blankets.
00:35:52I told him...
00:35:57I'm sorry. As soon as Jamarian leaves, I'll clear out the other room for you.
00:36:02At least it's warm out right now, so the floor shouldn't be too bad.
00:36:06Plus, you're a werewolf, so I figured...
00:36:10I patted the mattress. I turned around and stopped short.
00:36:17Marcus was hovering by the door, wringing his hands.
00:36:20His ears were pinned back, drooping heavily.
00:36:23I asked,
00:36:25Hey, what's wrong?
00:36:26Do you not want the floor?
00:36:27You can take the bed, it's fine. I'll take the floor.
00:36:31Now his tail was tucked, too.
00:36:33Tears welled in his eyes.
00:36:35Did I do something wrong?
00:36:36I stared at him, completely lost.
00:36:39No, of course not.
00:36:40You've been totally fine.
00:36:43Werewolves were massive.
00:36:45And when Marcus dropped heavily to his knees,
00:36:47the tiny room suddenly felt suffocatingly small.
00:36:55Bathed in the warm yellow glow of the lamp,
00:36:58his rugged face just looked incredibly pitiful.
00:37:04Marcus shuffled forward on his knees and wrapped his thick arms around my legs,
00:37:08tears spilling down his cheeks.
00:37:14Deb, whatever I messed up, I'll fix it.
00:37:18Please don't make me sleep alone.
00:37:20I swear, they taught me how to serve humans at Wellbeast Exchange.
00:37:25Heat flooded my cheeks as it finally clicked.
00:37:28Was he crying because I was making him sleep in a separate bed?
00:37:33Without thinking, I reached down and wiped a tear away with my thumb.
00:37:39Marcus practically melted into my touch,
00:37:42nuzzling his rough cheek against my palm.
00:37:46Can I?
00:37:48He was a terrifying apex predator.
00:37:50But here he was, crying in completely genuine distress.
00:37:54Marcus pressed.
00:37:54We just met.
00:37:56I just...
00:37:58I didn't think you'd even want to.
00:38:01Jumanian definitely hadn't.
00:38:04He'd made it perfectly clear he'd rather drop dead than touch some inferior human.
00:38:09Marcus pressed hot, wet kisses into the center of my hand.
00:38:15I want to.
00:38:17Deb, I want to give you a child.
00:38:20I want to stay right by your side and protect you both for the rest of my life.
00:38:24I'm just an unwanted, inferior wolf.
00:38:27You're the only person who's actually wanted me.
00:38:29He pressed his forehead to my knees.
00:38:31I really like you.
00:38:33I'm nothing like that fox out there.
00:38:34I am entirely devoted to you.
00:38:36My knees gave out and I sat down heavily on the edge of the mattress.
00:38:41Marcus's fever hot hands settled onto my calves.
00:38:45Still crying, he pushed himself up.
00:38:49Resting one knee on the bed beside me.
00:38:52He pulled his shirt over his head.
00:38:55Marcus's chest was corded with firm, sculpt muscle.
00:39:04Please take pity on me.
00:39:06Just give me a chance.
00:39:08My brain just stopped working.
00:39:10Hanging onto my last shred of sanity, I slowly nodded.
00:39:26I woke up in a hazy fog to the sound of rain lashing against the window.
00:39:30No wonder the room felt so suffocatingly hot and humid.
00:39:34I reached out to switch off the bedside lamp, but Marcus pulled me back.
00:39:39I rasped, my throat dry.
00:39:42Someone's knocking.
00:39:44There's someone out there.
00:39:48Stop.
00:39:54The wet kisses trailing down my neck paused, only to hover over my lips.
00:40:00Are you still thinking about him?
00:40:03You like him better, don't you?
00:40:04I felt totally trapped.
00:40:06I don't.
00:40:07I like you.
00:40:09I like you, okay?
00:40:11The second the words left my mouth, the incessant knocking stopped.
00:40:15Looking entirely satisfied, Marcus finally reached over and flicked off the light.
00:40:21The next morning, my entire body ached as I threw on my clothes.
00:40:26I muttered under my breath, Marcus had been way too huffed.
00:40:31Marcus came up behind me, pressing his heavy chest against my back.
00:40:38I don't know.
00:40:39Deb, you smell so good.
00:40:41No, wait.
00:40:43You smell sweet.
00:40:45Can we sleep together again tonight?
00:40:47Knock it off.
00:40:49I can barely walk as it.
00:40:53The words died in my throat.
00:40:56Jameritan was out there.
00:40:58His eyes were totally dark with fury.
00:41:01Gripping the leather armrest of the chair so hard the material was buckling.
00:41:07The sheer intensity of his glare sent an icy chill straight down my spine.
00:41:12Jamerian ground out with me too.
00:41:15Debra, do you have absolutely no shame?
00:41:19Before I could even open my mouth, Marcus's hand clamped possessively onto my waist.
00:41:26His posture went still, instantly hostile.
00:41:31Fox, if you say one more insulting thing to Deb...
00:41:35He growled.
00:41:35I'll bite your neck and snap it.
00:41:38Jamerian's pupils blew out into razor-thin slits, his canons bared.
00:41:42Try it.
00:41:44I'd love to strangle you right now.
00:41:46The air in the tiny room grew thick, heavy with the suffocating tension of two werebeasts gearing up for a
00:41:51territorial bloodbath.
00:41:52I reached back, lacing my fingers firmly through Marcus's.
00:41:56There's no point in fighting with someone who doesn't matter.
00:42:00He's leaving soon anyway.
00:42:02Marcus's whole demeanor flipped on a dime.
00:42:05All that lethal aggression evaporated.
00:42:08He turned to me, his eyes wide and pitiful, his bottom lip poking out in a soft pout.
00:42:13He's so mean, Deb. He scared me.
00:42:19I rubbed Marcus's ears. They were incredibly soft.
00:42:23That's just how he is. Just ignore him.
00:42:27I told him.
00:42:31Come on.
00:42:36Let's go buy you some pajamas.
00:42:38The stiff tension finally drained from Jamerican's humped shoulders, leaving him swaying slightly on his feet.
00:42:45Then, he moved, planting himself squarely in front of the door.
00:42:55He grabbed my arm.
00:42:57At Deborah, don't choose him.
00:42:58I thought you liked me.
00:43:00Whatever he can do for you, I can do too.
00:43:02Just send him back.
00:43:04Send him back right now, and I swear I'll pretend none of this ever happened.
00:43:07Behind me, I felt Marcus instantly tense up.
00:43:10I stayed quiet for a moment, letting the silence hang but changing the subject.
00:43:14You know, I grew up in an orphanage.
00:43:20Jamerian frowned, clearly thrown off.
00:43:24So?
00:43:25Because of that, I said, letting my mind drift back.
00:43:29I'm really good at reading people.
00:43:31When you first got here, I could tell you were genuinely happy.
00:43:34But eventually, I watched your mood sour into irritation and then disgust.
00:43:38I took a breath.
00:43:40I tried so hard to please you.
00:43:46I put in so much effort, but you just continually resented me.
00:43:50You thought I was beneath you, that I was unworthy of you, and those feelings were real.
00:43:56That's exactly why I decided to transfer into your ownership.
00:44:01I expected you to be happy and relieved right now.
00:44:05Instead, you're acting jealous and angry.
00:44:08Want to tell me why that is, Jamerian?
00:44:11I looked him dead in the eye.
00:44:14Outside, clouds swallowed the sun, plunging the room into dim gray.
00:44:19His fingertips had turned a pale, sickly blue, probably from the chill in the air.
00:44:25For a long time, he didn't say a word.
00:44:30Deciding this was a waste of time, I grabbed Marcus's hand and moved to brush past him.
00:44:36But Jamerian caught my free hand.
00:44:39I turned back.
00:44:40For the first time since I'd known him, his perfectly composed mask cracked.
00:44:44It revealed raw, genuine distress.
00:44:48He finally whispered.
00:44:50Debra, if I tell you right now that I really like you, is it too late?
00:45:00The whole situation was completely absurd.
00:45:03I was so stunned it took me a second to process what was happening.
00:45:09By the time I snapped back to reality, Marcus was already beating the living hell out of him.
00:45:16Stop!
00:45:17I grabbed Marcus, hauling him back.
00:45:20Stop hitting him! If he dies, you're going to prison!
00:45:24You piece of trash!
00:45:27You piece of trash.
00:45:30Marcus stumbled back, his chest heaving, his knuckles coated in blood.
00:45:40You have no right to confess your feelings to someone else's owner!
00:45:44You're trying to steal her!
00:45:46I'll beat you into the ground every time I see you!
00:45:50Jameritan struggled to prop himself up on his elbows, wiping his bleeding mouth with the back of his hand.
00:45:59Technically, I was here first.
00:46:02You're the one interfering in our relationship.
00:46:06Marcus let me go out a furious yell and kicked him hard in the ribs.
00:46:13Jam lift went completely still.
00:46:22Panic spiked in my chest, and I hurried over to check on him.
00:46:27Jamelion grinned his teeth through the pain, gazing up at me with obvious, desperate hope.
00:46:34You still care about me, don't you?
00:46:39Seeing that his injuries weren't life-threatening, I let it out a heavy breath of relief.
00:46:44I was just worried that if you died, it would ruin Marcus's life.
00:46:50I don't need a hospital.
00:46:54Deb, you heard me, right?
00:46:57I really like you.
00:46:59Jamelion grabbed my wrist, his voice breaking as he pleaded.
00:47:04You said you wanted to form a bond with me.
00:47:09You wanted us to pick out matching rings.
00:47:12He tried to sit up.
00:47:15Can we go do that right now?
00:47:18I said, calmly prying his fingers off my wrist.
00:47:24Jamelion,
00:47:26Giana already promised she's going to buy you,
00:47:28so you aren't going to be sent back to work in the red light district.
00:47:35You don't have to force yourself to be with me just because you're scared.
00:47:39Stop pretending to like me.
00:47:48No, no.
00:47:49Jamelion insisted, shrinking back into a submissive posture.
00:47:54I really do like you.
00:47:57I'm not pretending, I swear.
00:47:58He reached for my hand.
00:48:01I've liked you since the very first day we met.
00:48:04You're kind, and you're hard-working.
00:48:08It's impossible for me not to have feelings for you.
00:48:12As I listened to his desperate, broken assurances,
00:48:16my first and only reaction was pure amusement.
00:48:19How on earth could his past behavior pass for affection?
00:48:23I tilted my head, genuinely curious.
00:48:26So, your way of showing affection is calling me disgusting and dirty?
00:48:31Telling me to get out?
00:48:33Causing me physical and emotional pain?
00:48:36And then having the nerve to say I brought it all on myself?
00:48:39All the remaining color completely drained with Jameritan's face as I questioned him.
00:48:44If that's the case, Jamerian, then I don't want your affection.
00:48:48Besides, I honestly don't believe you actually like me at all.
00:48:52Stop lying to yourself.
00:48:54Certain he wasn't going to die from his injuries, I stood up.
00:48:59I grabbed Marcus's hand and let him out the front door.
00:49:04I took Marcus straight to the hospital.
00:49:06We ended up with the same nurse as last time,
00:49:09and she eyed him with obvious disgust.
00:49:14Is this your werebeast?
00:49:15The one who let you get banged up three times last month
00:49:18without ever showing his face,
00:49:20but makes you drag him in the second he's the one injured?
00:49:23I shifted uncomfortably, quick to clear the air.
00:49:26No, this is my new werebeast.
00:49:28The nurse flushed and immediately apologized to him.
00:49:31I'm so sorry.
00:49:33When my blood sugar dropped last last time,
00:49:36Deb broke my fall so I wouldn't get hurt.
00:49:38She's a genuinely good person.
00:49:40I thought you were the werebeast mistreating her.
00:49:44Marcus looked right at me,
00:49:46his expression unreadable.
00:49:51Deb, he said, his voice quiet.
00:49:55I am so sorry for what you went through.
00:49:59I'd always been good at just taking what life handed me.
00:50:02Whenever Jamardial treated me like garbage,
00:50:04I can convince myself I simply wasn't good enough for him,
00:50:08bending over backward to try and please him.
00:50:11It hurt, sure,
00:50:12but I used his anger as fuel to push myself and grow stronger.
00:50:16I honestly thought I was numb to it all by now.
00:50:19The contempt from strangers,
00:50:22the abuse from the people closest to me.
00:50:24But then Marcus said he felt sorry for me.
00:50:26He actually cared about my injuries and all the hard work I'd put in.
00:50:30He had told me he liked me more than anyone else.
00:50:33He truly saw me for who I was.
00:50:36Out of nowhere,
00:50:38a massive wave of grief washed over me,
00:50:40and the tears just started falling.
00:50:43I looked up,
00:50:45gently pushing his face so he was looking straight ahead.
00:50:52Just focus on getting patched up.
00:50:54It hit me then that bad situation really do get better eventually.
00:50:59I didn't have any family,
00:51:00and I'd wound up with Jamarian,
00:51:02a guy who never loved me.
00:51:04But all of that hell was just something I had to survive
00:51:07before finally meeting Marcus.
00:51:11Over the next few weeks,
00:51:13Marcus and I acted like Jamarian didn't even exist.
00:51:16Marcus went out and found a job.
00:51:17I'm an able-bodied man.
00:51:20I can't let you shoulder the burden providing for us all on your own.
00:51:23If we both work, our living situation will get better.
00:51:26That was a total revelation to me.
00:51:29Two people could actually share the heavy lifting of life together.
00:51:34Meanwhile, Jamarian stubbornly camped out on the couch day in and day out,
00:51:40just watching us come and go.
00:51:41The night before we moved out,
00:51:43he cornered me by the apartment gate.
00:51:46I wait at home for you every single day,
00:51:49but you never even look at me.
00:51:52Deb, I know I messed up.
00:51:55Everyone makes mistakes.
00:51:57Why can't you forgive me just this once?
00:52:00I shook my head.
00:52:02I don't blame you.
00:52:03I get it.
00:52:05You're an elite were-beast,
00:52:06and I'm a lower-class human.
00:52:09Buying your contract was pure luck on my part.
00:52:12I completely understand why you were so miserable with me and the life we had.
00:52:20A spark of hope lit up his eyes.
00:52:26So you forgive me?
00:52:28I swear I'll treat you right this time.
00:52:31Tomorrow, we can go together and return that low-grade mutt.
00:52:35I stepped back.
00:52:36No, Marcus is staying.
00:52:39You're just confusing your feelings because you're terrified of being sent to the Red Light District.
00:52:44Once the contract exchange goes through, your life will go back to normal.
00:52:49No!
00:52:51No!
00:52:52I'm not confused!
00:52:54Deb, how can I make you believe me?
00:52:57I really do like you.
00:53:01Watching him stand there crying and begging,
00:53:04I remembered how desperately I used to crave his love.
00:53:08Seeing it from the outside now,
00:53:10I realized just how pathetic that behavior looked.
00:53:13No wonder Gemarian had always found me so repulsive.
00:53:19Gemarian sank to the pavement,
00:53:21burying his face in his hands.
00:53:24Gemarian's words caught between sobs.
00:53:28I realized a long time ago that I actually had feelings for you,
00:53:33but I just couldn't accept that you were a lower-class human.
00:53:37My pride made me lash out and say things I didn't mean.
00:53:47I thought that by treating you terribly,
00:53:50I was proving I hadn't stooped to your level by being with you.
00:53:55He wiped his face.
00:53:58I got a sick sense of satisfaction out of insulting you
00:54:02and watching you bend over backward to prove your love.
00:54:06It gave me the upper hand in our relationship
00:54:08and made me feel like the admired, elite were-beef I was supposed to be.
00:54:13But I forgot how flawed and unwanted I actually am.
00:54:17Your love was the only thing that ever gave me value.
00:54:20Tears slipped through his fingers,
00:54:23leaving small, dark spots on the concrete.
00:54:28I finally understood his twisted logic.
00:54:32I finally understood his twisted logic.
00:54:35He simply couldn't stomach the fact that he liked a lower-class human.
00:54:41He'd used my blind devotion to convince himself he was merely re-putting up with me.
00:54:46Staring down at him, my stomach lurched.
00:54:48I physically gag, overwhelmed by pure disgust.
00:54:52Jamalian panicked, reaching out to soothe me.
00:54:55He asked.
00:54:56I wiped my mouth and shoved his hand away.
00:55:00Jamelian, we're done.
00:55:03Sheila arrived with a radiant smile.
00:55:06Deb, Marcus is really obedient, isn't he?
00:55:09Marcus hurried to speak.
00:55:11I couldn't help but laugh.
00:55:15Yeah, most of the time.
00:55:18Marcus muttered,
00:55:20Nonsense.
00:55:21I've been obedient all the time.
00:55:24Seeing the tall, brew-wear-be-stack like this was inexplicably adorable.
00:55:30Sheila asked me to sign the confirmation agreement.
00:55:33As I picked up the pen, I suddenly remembered the day I bought Jamerian.
00:55:36We sat together, his nose tip was red, tears and joy mingled together.
00:55:42Because he was so cute, I couldn't help but glance at him a few times.
00:55:47He looked a bit flustered.
00:55:49Sorry, I'll pay more attention to my appearance in the Empire.
00:55:54I couldn't help but laugh.
00:55:55You look pretty good right now.
00:55:58Jamerian laughed along with me.
00:56:01What's good about it?
00:56:03That was one of the rare times I saw him smile.
00:56:06I could recall the curve of his smiling lips, with the left canine on tooth slightly longer.
00:56:12I shook my head, trying to shake off the memory of Jamerian.
00:56:18No matter what, he was no longer that person.
00:56:23Jamerian lay in the room, staring blankly at the ceiling.
00:56:26Sheila finished reading the announcement.
00:56:30Jamerian gave a self-advocating smile.
00:56:35I used to think this bed was really uncomfortable.
00:56:38Only today did I realize it's actually quite comfortable.
00:56:43He sat up and followed at Sheila outside.
00:56:46He walked very slowly.
00:56:48But until he left, neither Marcus nor I looked at him again.
00:56:54Holding scissors, I was eager to try them on Marcus.
00:56:58I watched a video where the owner trimmed their werebeast ear fur into perfect round shapes.
00:57:03It looked so pretty.
00:57:06Let me try.
00:57:08But let's agree first.
00:57:09If I mess it up, you can't get mad.
00:57:13Marcus obediently lowered his head, his ears soft like two clouds.
00:57:17As long as you cut it, I like it all.
00:57:22The front door closed.
00:57:24Jamannon had left.
00:57:28A long time later, I heard from Aunt Sheila that Gianna had not bought Jamerian.
00:57:33She knew Jamerian couldn't have children, and she threw a huge tantra at the werebeast exchange.
00:57:41She said Jamerian wasted her time.
00:57:44He was clearly defective, yet acted so arrogant.
00:57:48I hadn't expected Gianna to be unaware of Jamerian's problem.
00:57:52So what about Jameritan?
00:57:54Was he sold to the Red Light District?
00:57:56He got sick. Depression.
00:57:58He couldn't even talk to people.
00:58:00The manager could only apply to scrape him.
00:58:02She paused on the phone.
00:58:04Now he works at an orphanage.
00:58:06Being around those children, he actually feels calmer.
00:58:10After hanging up the phone, I stood there in a daze for quite a while.
00:58:15Marcus hugged me from behind.
00:58:17Are you worried about him?
00:58:19If you're really worried, we could buy him back too.
00:58:21I don't mind.
00:58:23He said he didn't mind, but his hands were almost squeezing my waist in half.
00:58:29I turned around and pinched his face.
00:58:32When will you learn not to say one thing and mean another?
00:58:42Marcus was good in every way.
00:58:44But he was always so careful and eager to please me.
00:58:48Whatever I asked, he was willing.
00:58:51I was really afraid that one day, if I did something bad, he would clean up after me.
00:58:56I hoped he could be more at ease and express his true feelings.
00:59:01I pinched him hard.
00:59:03Wanted Marcus to learn to refuse my unreasonable actions.
00:59:07But even when his cheeks turned bright red, he didn't react.
00:59:10Instead, his eyes shone as he looked at me.
00:59:14I felt defeated.
00:59:16Why don't you say it hurts?
00:59:18You can refuse me, you know?
00:59:20Marcus shook his head.
00:59:21You only pinch me, you don't pinch anyone else.
00:59:24That means you like me.
00:59:31You like me, I'm happy.
00:59:32I don't feel pain.
00:59:36I felt amused and a little angry.
00:59:38You really are.
00:59:40Really are.
00:59:45I kissed his swollen red face.
00:59:48You're just too adorable.
00:59:50After the kiss, I suddenly noticed the air in the room had become sticky.
00:59:56Mark Horses was clearly restless.
00:59:58His tail wagging non-stop.
01:00:00I wanted to run, but he had already grabbed my ankle.
01:00:04Our child will be even cuter than me.
01:00:06Do you want to try?
01:00:10I don't want to.
01:00:11It was still Dale time.
01:00:14Marcus tilted his head and think for a minute, but still pulled me back.
01:00:19He was very serious.
01:00:21You said I should learn to refuse you.
01:00:23Then I refuse.
01:00:24You don't want to.
01:00:29Is that what I meant?
01:00:30Stop kissing me!
01:00:33Fortunately, I was someone who could reconcile with myself.
01:00:36Maybe this counted as Marcus's first step toward learning how to love normally.
01:00:42Marcus stood in the kitchen, ears permed up, tail swaying gently.
01:00:48Marcus held up a worn photo of me, pressing it to his chest.
01:00:52Sheila gave me this before I came.
01:00:55I held it every night at the arena.
01:00:57I was so scared no one would ever want me.
01:01:01He set the photo down carefully on the shelf, right where he could see it every morning.
01:01:09Then his ears flattened.
01:01:13Jumanian came back again today.
01:01:15He blocked me at the neighborhood entrance when I was five minutes late from work.
01:01:20Marcus's jaw tightened.
01:01:22I don't like him near you, Deb.
01:01:25I really don't.
01:01:31He pulled me close, resting his chin on top of my head.
01:01:35I know he's leaving soon.
01:01:36But until he does, I want you to stay safe.
01:01:41Marcus came home one afternoon, a folded paper in his hand and tears streaming down his face.
01:01:47Deb, I formed a bond with you.
01:01:50It's certified and official.
01:01:53He held up the bond certificate.
01:01:55His hand was trembling.
01:01:57I'm so happy.
01:01:59I looked at the paper, then at his tear-streaked face.
01:02:04Marcus, you're crying again.
01:02:07I can't help it.
01:02:09He dropped to his knees, wrapping his arms around my waist.
01:02:13I'm just so happy.
01:02:15A few months later, Marcus held a tiny bundle in his massive arms, tears rolling down his cheeks again.
01:02:24It's a daughter.
01:02:27She looks just like you, Deb.
01:02:31I touched the baby's small face.
01:02:36Stop crying, Marcus.
01:02:38It's bad for your eyes.
01:02:41He shook his head, pressing his forehead against mine.
01:02:46I can't help it.
01:02:48I'm so happy.
01:02:51I wish you all happiness, too.
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