- 23 minutes ago
Swapping My Alpha: From Fox to Wolf - (2026) ✅ FULL EP
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Short filmTranscript
00:00:02In 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.
00:00:22So 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 Jumerian 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 Jumerian.
00:01:02It's only a scratch.
00:01:04Was it really necessary to go to the hospital?
00:01:07I'm hungry.
00:01:08Come back and make me dinner.
00:01:09I never get enough to eat, not after being yours.
00:01:12You seriously suck at taking care of me.
00:01:14Was that honestly how he saw things?
00:01:15After leaving the hospital, I headed straight for the werebeast exchange.
00:01:20Not my home.
00:01:21I'd like to exchange my werebeast.
00:01:27I'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?
00:01:47A 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 Jumerian 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.
00:02:11Crying won't change anything.
00:02:20I'm never going to form a bond with you.
00:02:23Here'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.
00:02:39The receptionist blinked in surprise.
00:02:42Normally, trained werebeasts wouldn't act like this.
00:02:46They 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.
00:03:00I 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.
00:03:13Come with me.
00:03:28I'd originally paid $80,000 for Jumerian, 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 Jumeron's, 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 werebeasts genuinely liked humans.
00:04:04If that were true, maybe one would even to 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, werebeasts 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.
00:04:28A loose photo slipped out of her folder and fluttered to the floor.
00:04:39The 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.
00:04:49But he looked incredibly dangerous.
00:04:51He was a werewolf.
00:04:53The receptionist sighed, picking it up.
00:05:02He'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.
00:05:46Nobody 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-guessing myself.
00:06:04And a werewolf technically counted canine as a canine, didn't it?
00:06:13I 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 Jemernian 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 Jemernian, she'd made a habit of dropping by with premium nutritional supplements,
00:07:28and the two of them had grown unusually close.
00:07:34I slowed my pace.
00:07:36I slowed my pace.
00:07:42Gianna noticed me.
00:07:44Deb, off to work again?
00:07:48I have to say, even if you're about to form a bond with Jemarian,
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.
00:08:19Jemarian 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.
00:08:30Jemarian, how can you say that about Deb?
00:08:35Jemarian 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.
00:08:56He 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 trapped 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 Jemarian 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 Jemarian's hand.
00:09:35Well, well.
00:09:37If it isn't the highly sought after Jemarian,
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, Jemarian 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 Jemarian finally opened the door,
00:10:24his eyes were red and swollen.
00:10:27You've never lived in Werebeat 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 a little 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 Jemianna?
00:11:06Jemarian stared at the male niece and mannered down at me with contempt.
00:11:10His gaze was cold and full of resentment.
00:11:14Debra,
00:11:16you 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 Jemarian beg like that made me long for someone who loved me.
00:11:43I never brought up his past,
00:11:46terrified it would offend him.
00:11:49I certainly never expected that when he finally brought it up himself,
00:11:55he would accuse me of taking advantage of his misfortune.
00:11:58But now I argued back,
00:12:00trying 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,
00:12:16I 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.
00:12:41Jemarian and I didn't have to be chained to each other forever.
00:12:44I spoke up, stopping Jemarian just as he was closing the door.
00:12:49Jemarian,
00:12:50does being with me really make you that miserable?
00:12:57He paused.
00:12:59When he looked back over his shoulder,
00:13:01he wore that same mocking ting smirk.
00:13:05Yeah.
00:13:06But someone of your low status got incredibly lucky acquiring me,
00:13:10so 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,
00:13:29Jemarian 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.
00:13:47You'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.
00:14:17Freedom.
00:14:22It better be.
00:14:24Jemarian muttered,
00:14:26shutting the door firmly behind him.
00:14:32Giana showed up bright and early the next morning.
00:14:36Jumeric and I agreed to go shopping.
00:14:38We 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, testing the waters.
00:14:51Normally, I would sulk and refuse to let him know.
00:14:55It always ate at me that he refused to go anywhere with me,
00:14:59yet constantly went out with her.
00:15:01But today, I had my own plans.
00:15:05I don't mind.
00:15:08Jemarian had been getting a look of disgust ready,
00:15:11but my answer stopped him in his tracks.
00:15:15His expression turned awkward.
00:15:17Deborah, you really aren't angry?
00:15:20I pulled on my jacket.
00:15:22Not at all.
00:15:23Go 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,
00:15:39her 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,
00:16:01just like it was all year round.
00:16:07It was mostly lower-class people out shopping
00:16:10with their ordinary werebeasts.
00:16:12Shoppers bumped into each other in the crowded aisles,
00:16:14but 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 Gemarian say that worthless people deserve cheap things.
00:16:28He wouldn't loudly make fun of this mall in public before ditching me,
00:16:33leaving 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.
00:16:45Gemarian was actually home.
00:16:47He and Gianna usually stayed out late.
00:16:50He was Bellamy showed routes with the axe of the lathes,
00:16:53who missibly in once.
00:16:54He was planted on the couch with his arms crossed,
00:16:57visibly fuming.
00:17:01Where have you been?
00:17:02You didn't even make dinner.
00:17:04It's bad enough living in poverty with you,
00:17:07but now I'm starving.
00:17:08You do a terrible job taking care of me.
00:17:16I 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.
00:17:31I spent all afternoon making your birthday dinner,
00:17:33and 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.
00:17:51I didn't hear Gemarian walk up behind me.
00:17:58Are you treating me like a dog?
00:18:00I 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 him. He froze.
00:18:18His hand hovering just over the comb.
00:18:22What 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.
00:18:34In a couple of days, you'll never have to see me again.
00:18:43The clock ticked loudly in the heavy silence between us.
00:18:51After a long pause, his scowl softened.
00:18:55He spoke with absolute certainty.
00:18:58Giana was right.
00:19:01About what?
00:19:03You saw us getting close and now you're threatening to leave just to guilt trick me.
00:19:07Now you're bringing up transfer papers.
00:19:12He crossed his arms.
00:19:13Giana said you were manipulative and she wasn't wrong.
00:19:17Did you honestly think a few empty threats would make me beg for your attention like some cheap werebeast?
00:19:23I was too exhausted to argue.
00:19:28Think whatever you want, I muttered.
00:19:31My indifference only fueled his temper.
00:19:40He 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, just say so.
00:20:04Aren't you ashamed of being so deceptive?
00:20:09By law, warybeats were ob-gated to provide companionship to their humans.
00:20:13Early on, I hadn't felt comfortable sleeping with him since we were practically strangers.
00:20:18But later, he was the one who refused.
00:20:21We still hadn't been intimate.
00:20:24I had only ever seen him hold Giana's hand.
00:20:27Never mind.
00:20:28Whenever I showed how much that stung, Germanion would just mock me.
00:20:32Giana tripped and I helped her up.
00:20:34We aren't impure like you inferior humans.
00:20:39Looking at Germanion now, I felt he was a total stranger.
00:20:44I stared at my hands.
00:20:46The hands that had cooked and cleaned and tried for a whole year.
00:20:51He'd called every bit of it a trap.
00:20:55I looked at the heart on the calendar.
00:21:00I'd drawn it back when I still loved him.
00:21:04There was nothing shameful about that.
00:21:06Jamarian was still cleaning.
00:21:12He tore the calendar into pieces, letting the scraps flutter to the floor.
00:21:19Listen to me.
00:21:21Even if we bond, I'm still going to see Giana.
00:21:24If you want to touch me, you have to ask for permission first.
00:21:29His tail lashed behind him.
00:21:33And if we walk down the street, no one can know we're together.
00:21:39Jamarian, I interrupted.
00:21:42He glared at me, clearly not finished with his rant.
00:21:46I had never felt so perfectly calm.
00:21:50No wonder you were marked as defective.
00:21:54Buying you was a terrible mistake.
00:21:57I said, initiating every single word.
00:22:01Jamerican's golden people shrank.
00:22:07His fluffy white tail shot straight up in the air.
00:22:10His 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.
00:22:30Filling 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.
00:22:37Between his sharp brows and the upward slant of his eyes.
00:22:41He looked downright terrifying.
00:22:44The scar on his temple only made him look more so.
00:22:47Jamarian couldn't stop staring at him.
00:22:51This 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?
00:23:01Marcus must have picked up on my nerves.
00:23:04He leaned down, offering me his furry ears to pet.
00:23:06And spoke in a surprisingly so soft voice.
00:23:16The worker with him was Sheila.
00:23:18The same receptionist I'd met before.
00:23:20She gave me a warm smile.
00:23:23Don't worry.
00:23:24I watched Marcus grow up.
00:23:26And he's an absolute sweetheart.
00:23:29There is one issue though.
00:23:31Because werebeast exchange is currently under under renovation.
00:23:34It'll be about two weeks before we can take Jamamian back.
00:23:38Would it be alright if he stayed here in the meantime?
00:23:42We'll gladly cover his living expenses.
00:23:47While Sheila talked, Marcus's furry tail brushed against my ankle, wagging a mile a minute with excitement.
00:23:58I hesitated, not giving her a definite answer right away.
00:24:03Jamarian had been dead silent.
00:24:05But the second Marcus reached out to gently touch my pinky finger, Jamarian scoffed.
00:24:11Mutt?
00:24:12Marcus flinched.
00:24:17He instantly shrunk his massive frame down and pressed himself against my side.
00:24:22Miss Pennington, he's glaring at me.
00:24:25And I'm really scared.
00:24:30Just like that, my anxiety vanished.
00:24:33People always complained that werewolves were tough to handle.
00:24:36But Marcus was incredibly sweet.
00:24:40He was gentle and eager to please, which was exactly what I wanted.
00:24:47Sheila's smile dropped.
00:24:49Her face went totally flat as she held up her employee badge.
00:24:53Number 4561, werewolf.
00:24:56At Jamarian Garrod.
00:24:57Is that correct?
00:24:58Jamarian went pale.
00:25:00Yes.
00:25:02On behalf of Werebeast Exchange, I am officially notifying you that your owner has requested a replacement.
00:25:09We 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 have your things ready.
00:25:32The second Sheila walked out the door, Jamariath lunged, yanking Marcus away from me.
00:25:39Mutt!
00:25:43What do you think you're doing?
00:25:45Is 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.
00:26:00He didn't try to fight back.
00:26:02He just scrambled to his feet and looked at me cautiously, completely miserable.
00:26:07My heart broke for him.
00:26:12I shoved Jamian out of the way and rushed over.
00:26:16Jamarian slammed back against the wall, wincing.
00:26:19Are you okay?
00:26:22Deborah!
00:26:24I know exactly what you're doing!
00:26:26You're just using this mutt to manipulate me into a bond!
00:26:30Cancel the agreement right now and send him back!
00:26:33He pointed at the door.
00:26:37If you don't, I will never bond with you.
00:26:41I whipped around, totally out of patience.
00:26:44Jamian! Jamian!
00:26:46I'm only going to say this one last time!
00:26:50I don't want you anymore.
00:27:03Jamerican didn't say another word.
00:27:06He just turned and stormed out the door.
00:27:10Once things had settled, I carefully dabbed some medicine onto Marcus' scraped hand.
00:27:14He 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?
00:27:27Terrified he was going to turn out just like Jamariuk, I decided to lay all my cards on the table.
00:27:35Look, if you stay with me, you aren't going to get premium nutritional supplements.
00:27:40Since I'm classified as a lower tier human, my paychecks barely cover the basics.
00:27:47I look down at my hands.
00:27:51I work two jobs a day, I smell like sweat half the summer, and I know I'm pretty average looking.
00:28:00If you're ashamed to be seen me, tell me now, and I can send you back.
00:28:14I tried to sound casual as I spoke, subtly wiping my sweaty hands behind my back.
00:28:22Marcus finally looked at me, his grey eyes shining with tears.
00:28:27I'm so sorry.
00:28:29My stomach dropped.
00:28:31Was he going to reject me, too?
00:28:35The skin around his eyes was flushed raw.
00:28:39I'm sorry, I'm just so happy.
00:28:41I'm so glad to be staying with you that I couldn't hold my expression together.
00:28:46I thought I looked ugly when I cried, so I didn't want you to see.
00:28:52A loud sob broke from his chest.
00:28:54I'm sure they were going to ship me off to the fighting arena.
00:28:58Then they told me someone actually wanted me.
00:29:05He clutched my hand tighter.
00:29:09I held your picture at night, and I just couldn't believe it.
00:29:13I was terrified it was a dream.
00:29:14Mrs. Penningston, I think you're incredibly cute and beautiful.
00:29:24I'm not ashamed of you at all.
00:29:28I'm just so full of joy that I can't stop crying.
00:29:31I've never been this happy in my whole life.
00:29:34He was being so silly.
00:29:35The tears were already pouring down his cheeks.
00:29:39Sheila had mentioned that Marcus was quiet and timid simply because nobody wanted him.
00:29:49But listening to him chatter away now, I realized he'd just been keeping it all bottled up.
00:29:56A strange, restless warmth stirred in my chest.
00:30:00Could someone really be this happy just to be with me?
00:30:03It felt like a dream.
00:30:04I took his hand.
00:30:06His palm was damp with nervous sweat, but the solid heat of his skin told me it was real.
00:30:11You don't have to call me Mrs. Pennington, I told him.
00:30:14Just Deb is fine.
00:30:20When Jamarian got back, Gianna was with him.
00:30:23Jamarian marched straight into the bedroom and started packing, making as much noise as humanly possible.
00:30:31Gianna lingered in the entryway, looking completely disgusted.
00:30:38You've worked for years, and this tiny place is all you can afford, Deb?
00:30:43Maybe you just aren't working hard enough.
00:30:46Jamarian told me today you wanted a new werebeast.
00:30:49You really take him for granted.
00:30:52If I had a werebeast like him, I'd give up absolutely anything to provide for him.
00:30:59She smoothed her skirt smugly.
00:31:02I'd never kick him out.
00:31:06Inferior people have trash taste.
00:31:09Jamarian scoffed from the other room.
00:31:12She brings home a cheap mutt, and now the whole apartment stinks.
00:31:16I only had to put up with this for two more days, so getting into it with them was pointless.
00:31:23Keeping my head down, I went back to brushing Marcus's tail.
00:31:31The staff over at werebeast exchange hadn't bothered to groom him since no one wanted to buy him.
00:31:37I made sure to brush him out thoroughly, knowing how painful matted fur could be.
00:31:44Jamarian and Gianna kept lobbing insults back and forth, tearing me down.
00:31:53Actually, foxes are the ones that stink.
00:31:56Marcus chimed in out of nowhere.
00:31:59Jamaritan streamed out of the bedroom, livid.
00:32:03What did you just say?!
00:32:07Marcus stepped in front of me.
00:32:09I said you're a stinking fox.
00:32:11You flirt with other people when you already have an owner.
00:32:13He bared his teeth.
00:32:15You have zero loyalty and zero morals.
00:32:20I stared at him, stunned.
00:32:23I can say it ten times if you want.
00:32:25For a guy who was supposed to be timid, he had a very sharp tongue.
00:32:30Was he defending me?
00:32:37The quiet warmth spread through my chest.
00:32:41When I looked up at him, he just blinked innocently and shrunk against my side.
00:32:45Gianna scoffed loudly.
00:32:48Since you obviously can't stand Jamanalik at Debra, I assume you won't mind if he crashes at my place?
00:32:54I don't mind at all.
00:32:55I nodded.
00:32:57Jamarian dropped the pile of clothes he was holding.
00:33:01You've wanted to get rid of me this entire time, haven't you, Debra?
00:33:05I looked down at his feet.
00:33:07He was standing on a $150 shirt.
00:33:10While I was sitting there in a cheap sweatshirt I'd bought at a $3 for $30 sale.
00:33:16I let out a sigh.
00:33:19Jamanian, aren't you the one who wanted to leave?
00:33:22His jaw clenched.
00:33:24Jamekin shot me a glares.
00:33:26Exactly.
00:33:27I want to leave you.
00:33:29It's not the other way around.
00:33:31I don't want to spend another minute in this dump.
00:33:34Hmph.
00:33:37He turned away.
00:33:38Gianna chimed in, quick to pascave him.
00:33:44Don't worry, Jamaritan.
00:33:47Come home with me.
00:33:49I'll give you everything you could ever want.
00:33:53But Jamarian didn't answer her.
00:33:56The only sound in the room was his tail thumping a steady rhythm against the floor.
00:34:09I smoothed out the new blankets.
00:34:11I told him.
00:34:16I'm sorry, as soon as Jamarian leaves I'll clear out the other room for you.
00:34:20At least it's warm out right now, so the floor shouldn't be too bad.
00:34:24Plus, you're a werewolf, so I figured...
00:34:28I patted the mattress.
00:34:30I turned around and stopped short.
00:34:36Marcus was hovering by the door, wringing his hands.
00:34:39His ears were pinned back, drooping heavily.
00:34:42I asked.
00:34:43Hey, what's wrong?
00:34:45Do you not want the floor?
00:34:46You can take the bed, it's fine.
00:34:48I'll take the floor.
00:34:49Now his tail was tucked, too.
00:34:52Tears welled in his eyes.
00:34:54Did I do something wrong?
00:34:55I stared at him, completely lost.
00:34:58No, of course not.
00:34:59You've been totally fine.
00:35:02Werewolves were massive, and when Marcus dropped heavily to his knees, the tiny room suddenly felt suffocatingly small.
00:35:14Bathed in the warm yellow glow of the lamp, his rugged face just looked incredibly pitiful.
00:35:22After a long, tense pause, he took a few steps forward.
00:35:26He stopped short, and looked back at me.
00:35:29I kept my eyes glued to the floor, pretending not to notice.
00:35:38Gemalion?
00:35:42Gianna's smile vanished.
00:35:44When Gemalion finally moved, it was to ush Gianna toward the door.
00:35:49I really don't want to be here.
00:35:52But where a beast exchange assigned me to Debra's house, I shouldn't break the rules.
00:35:59You can find me at the hall once I'm officially listed for sale, Gianna.
00:36:03He shut the front door firmly, cutting off her frustrated protests.
00:36:07Marcus watched Gemalion stand motionless by the door, then leaned in close.
00:36:12Let's go back to the bedroom, Deb.
00:36:15It's getting late.
00:36:17We should go to sleep.
00:36:18His warm brushed my skin, bringing a sudden hot flush flush to my face.
00:36:24It was a totally ordinary suggestion.
00:36:26But something about the way he said it made me acutely self-conscious.
00:36:31Gemalion whipped around.
00:36:33You two are sleeping in the same bed?
00:36:39Gemalion whipped around.
00:36:41Marcus drept an arm over my shoulders, pulling me flush against his chest.
00:36:46He gave Gemalion a wide-eyed, innocent look.
00:36:49Of course we are.
00:36:52Isn't it normal to sleep next to my owner?
00:36:55Not that it's any of your business anyway.
00:36:59You're just Deb's ex now.
00:37:02Marcus shuffled forward on his knees and wrapped his thick arms around my legs, tears spilling down his cheeks.
00:37:13Deb, whatever I messed up, I'll fix it.
00:37:16Please don't make me sleep alone.
00:37:18I swear.
00:37:19They taught me how to serve humans at whale beast exchange.
00:37:23Heat flooded my cheeks as it finally clicked.
00:37:27Was he crying because I was making him sleep in a separate bed?
00:37:32Without thinking, I reached down and wiped a tear away with my thumb.
00:37:38Marcus practically melted into my touch, nuzzling his rough cheek against my palm.
00:37:44Can I?
00:37:46He was a terrifying apex predator.
00:37:49But here he was, crying in completely genuine distress.
00:37:53We just met.
00:37:55I just...
00:37:57I didn't think you'd even want to.
00:38:00Germanion definitely hadn't.
00:38:02He'd made it perfectly clear he'd rather drop dead than touch some inferior human.
00:38:08Marcus pressed hot, wet kisses into the center of my hand.
00:38:13I want to.
00:38:16Deb, I want to give you a child.
00:38:19I want to stay right by your side and protect you both for the rest of my life.
00:38:23I'm just an unwanted, inferior wolf.
00:38:25You're the only person who's actually wanted me.
00:38:27He pressed his forehead to my knees.
00:38:30I really like you.
00:38:31I'm nothing like that fox out there.
00:38:33I am entirely devoted to you.
00:38:35My knees gave out and I sat down heavily on the edge of the mattress.
00:38:40Marcus's fever-hot hands settled onto my calves.
00:38:43Still crying, he pushed himself up.
00:38:47Resting one knee on the bed beside me.
00:38:51He pulled his shirt over his head.
00:38:54Marcus's chest was corded with firm, sculpt muscle.
00:38:59Yes?
00:39:03Please take pity on me.
00:39:05Just give me a chance.
00:39:06My brain just stopped working.
00:39:09Hanging on to my last shred of sanity, I slowly nodded.
00:39:24I woke up in a hazy fog to the sound of rain lashing against the window
00:39:29No wonder the room felt so suffocatingly hot and humid
00:39:33I reached out to switch off the bedside lamp
00:39:35But Marcus pulled me back
00:39:37I rasped, my throat dry
00:39:41Someone's knocking
00:39:43There's someone out there
00:39:46Stop
00:39:52The wet kisses trailing down my neck paused, only to hover over my lips
00:39:59Are you still thinking about him?
00:40:01You like him better, don't you?
00:40:03I felt totally trapped
00:40:04I don't! I like you! I like you, okay?
00:40:09The second the words left my mouth, the incessant knocking stopped
00:40:13Looking entirely satisfied, Marcus finally reached over and flicked off the light
00:40:19The next morning, my entire body ached as I threw on my clothes
00:40:25I muttered under my breath
00:40:27Marcus had been way too huffed
00:40:29Marcus came up behind me, pressing his heavy chest against my back
00:40:37Dad, you smell so good
00:40:40No, wait
00:40:41You smell sweet
00:40:43Can we sleep together again tonight?
00:40:46Knock it off, I can barely walk as it
00:40:52The words died in my throat
00:40:54Gemaritan was out there
00:40:56His eyes were totally dark with fury
00:40:59Gripping the lunar leather armrest of the chair so hard the material was buckling
00:41:05The sheer intensity of his glare sent an icy chill straight down my spine
00:41:11Gemaritan drowned out his face too
00:41:13Deborah, do you have absolutely no shame?
00:41:18Before I could even open my mouth, Marcus' hand clamped possessively onto my waist
00:41:24His posture went still, instantly hostile
00:41:30Fox, if you say one more insulting thing to Deb
00:41:33He growled
00:41:34I'll bite your neck and snap it
00:41:36Gemaritan's pupils blew out into razor-thin slits
00:41:39His canons bared
00:41:40Try it
00:41:42I'd love to strangle you right now
00:41:44The air in the tiny room grew thick
00:41:46Heavy with the suffocating tension of two werebeasts gearing up for a territorial bloodbath
00:41:51I reached back, lacing my fingers firmly through Marcus'
00:41:54There's no point in fighting with someone who doesn't matter
00:41:58He's leaving soon anyway
00:42:00Marcus' whole demeanor flipped on a dime
00:42:03All that lethal aggression evaporated
00:42:06He turned to me
00:42:07His eyes wide and pitiful
00:42:09His bottom lip poking out in a soft pout
00:42:12He's so mean, Deb
00:42:13He scared me
00:42:18I rubbed Marcus' ears
00:42:20They were incredibly soft
00:42:22That's just how he is
00:42:23Just ignore him
00:42:25I told him
00:42:30Come on
00:42:35Let's go buy you some pajamas
00:42:36The stiff tension finally drained from Gemaritan's humped shoulders
00:42:40Leaving him swaying slightly on his feet
00:42:43Then, he moved
00:42:45Planting himself squarely in front of the door
00:42:53He grabbed my arm
00:42:55At Debra, don't choose him
00:42:57I thought you liked me
00:42:58Whatever he can do for you, I can do too
00:43:01Just send him back
00:43:02Send him back right now
00:43:03And I swear I'll pretend none of this ever happened
00:43:05Behind me, I felt Marcus instantly tense up
00:43:08I stayed quiet for a moment
00:43:10Letting the silence hang, but changing the subject
00:43:13You know, I grew up in an orphanage
00:43:18Gemarian frowned
00:43:19Clearly thrown off
00:43:22So?
00:43:24Because of that
00:43:25I said, letting my mind drift back
00:43:27I'm really good at reading people
00:43:29When you first got here
00:43:30I could tell you were genuinely happy
00:43:32But eventually, I watched your mood sour into irritation
00:43:35And then disgust
00:43:36I took a breath
00:43:39I tried so hard to please you
00:43:44I put in so much effort
00:43:46But you just continually resented me
00:43:49You thought I was beneath you
00:43:50That I was unworthy of you
00:43:52And those feelings were real
00:43:54That's exactly why I decided to transfer answer your ownership
00:44:00I expected you to be happy and relieved right now
00:44:03Instead, you're acting jealous and angry
00:44:06Want to tell me why that is, Gemarian?
00:44:09I looked him dead in the eye
00:44:12Outside, clouds swallowed the sun
00:44:14Plunging the room into dim gray
00:44:18His fingertips had turned a pale, sickly blue
00:44:21Probably from the chill in the air
00:44:24For a long time, he didn't say a word
00:44:28Deciding this was a waste of time
00:44:30I grabbed Marcus' hand and moved to brush past him
00:44:35But Gemarian caught my free hand
00:44:37I turned back
00:44:39For the first time since I'd known him
00:44:41His perfectly composed mask cracked
00:44:43It revealed raw, genuine distress
00:44:45He finally whispered
00:44:48Debra
00:44:49If I tell you right now that I really like you
00:44:53Is it too late?
00:44:59The whole situation was completely absurd
00:45:02I was so stunned
00:45:03It took me a second to process what was happening
00:45:07By the time I snapped back to reality
00:45:10Marcus was already beating the living hell out of him
00:45:15Stop!
00:45:16I grabbed Marcus, hauling him back
00:45:18Stop hitting him!
00:45:20If he dies, you're going to prison!
00:45:23You piece of trash
00:45:26You piece of trash
00:45:28Marcus stumbled back
00:45:30His chest heaving
00:45:31His knuckles coated in blood
00:45:38You have no right to confess your feelings to someone else's owner
00:45:42You're trying to steal her!
00:45:44I'll beat you into the ground every time I see you
00:45:48I'll beat you into the ground every time I see you
00:45:49Jameritan struggled to prop himself up on his elbows
00:45:51Wiping his bleeding mouth with the back of his hand
00:45:58Technically, I was here first
00:46:01You're the one interfering in our relationship
00:46:04Marcus then brought a furious yell
00:46:06And kicked him hard in the ribs
00:46:12Jamlift went completely still
00:46:20Panic spiked in my chest
00:46:22And I hurried over to check on him
00:46:25Jamelion grinned his teeth through the pain
00:46:28Gazing up at me with obvious, desperate hope
00:46:33You still care about me, don't you?
00:46:37Seeing that his injuries weren't life-threatening
00:46:39I let it out a heavy breath of relief
00:46:42I was just worried that if you died
00:46:44It would ruin Marcus's life
00:46:48I don't need a hospital
00:46:52Deb, you heard me
00:46:54Right?
00:46:55I really like you
00:46:57Jamelion grabbed my wrist
00:46:59His voice breaking as he pleaded
00:47:02You said you wanted to form a bond with me
00:47:07You wanted us to pick out matching rings
00:47:10He tried to sit up
00:47:13Can we go do that right now?
00:47:17I said, calmly prying his fingers off my wrist
00:47:23Jamelion
00:47:24Giana already promised she's going to buy you
00:47:27So you aren't going to be sent back to work in the red light district
00:47:33You don't have to force yourself to be with me just because you're scared
00:47:37Stop pretending to like me
00:47:46No, no
00:47:47Jamelion insisted
00:47:48Shrinking back into a submissive posture
00:47:52I really do like you
00:47:55I'm not pretending, I swear
00:47:56He reached for my hand
00:47:59I've liked you since the very first day we met
00:48:02You're kind
00:48:04And you're hardworking
00:48:06It's impossible for me not to have feelings for you
00:48:10As I listened to his desperate, broken assurances
00:48:14My first and only reaction was pure amusement
00:48:17How on earth could his past behavior pass for affection?
00:48:21I tilted my head, genuinely curious
00:48:24So, your way of showing affection is calling me disgusting and dirty?
00:48:30Telling me to get out?
00:48:31Causing me physical and emotional pain?
00:48:34And then having the nerve to say I brought it all on myself?
00:48:37All the remaining color completely drained with Jameritan's face as I questioned him
00:48:42If that's the case, Jamerian, then I don't want your affection
00:48:46Besides, I honestly don't believe you actually like me at all
00:48:50Stop lying to yourself
00:48:52Certain he wasn't going to die from his injuries
00:48:55I stood up
00:48:57I grabbed Marcus' hand and let him out the front door
00:49:02I took Marcus straight to the hospital
00:49:04We ended up with the same nurse as last time
00:49:07And she eyed him with obvious disgust
00:49:12Is this your werebeast?
00:49:13The one who let you get banged up three times last month
00:49:16Without ever showing his face
00:49:18But makes you drag him in the second he's the one injured?
00:49:21I shifted uncomfortably
00:49:23Quick to clear the air
00:49:24No, this is my new werebeast
00:49:26The nurse flushed and immediately apologized to him
00:49:29I'm so sorry
00:49:32When my blood sugar dropped last last time
00:49:34Deb broke my fall so I wouldn't get hurt
00:49:36She's a genuinely good person
00:49:38I thought you were the werebeast mistreating her
00:49:42Marcus looked right at me
00:49:44His expression unreadable
00:49:50Deb
00:49:50He said
00:49:51His voice quiet
00:49:53I'm so sorry for what you went through
00:49:57I'd always been good at just taking what life handed me
00:50:00Whenever Jamardial treated me like garbage
00:50:02I can convince myself I simply wasn't good enough for him
00:50:06Bending over backward to try and please him
00:50:08It hurt
00:50:09Sure
00:50:10But I used his anger as fuel to push myself and grow stronger
00:50:14I honestly thought I was numb to it all by now
00:50:17The contempt from strangers
00:50:19The abuse from the people closest to me
00:50:22But then Marcus said he felt sorry for me
00:50:24He actually cared about my injuries and all the hard work I'd put in
00:50:28He had told me he liked me more than anyone else
00:50:31He truly saw me for who I was
00:50:34Out of nowhere
00:50:35A massive wave of grief washed over me
00:50:38And the tears just started falling
00:50:41I looked up
00:50:42Gently pushing his face so he was looking straight ahead
00:50:50Just focus on getting patched up
00:50:52It hit me then that bad situation really do get better eventually
00:50:57I didn't have any family
00:50:58And I'd wound up with Jamarian
00:51:00A guy who never loved me
00:51:02But all of that hell was just something I had to survive
00:51:05Before finally meeting Marcus
00:51:09Over the next few weeks
00:51:11Marcus and I acted like Jamarian didn't even exist
00:51:13Marcus went out and found a job
00:51:15I'm an able-bodied man
00:51:18I can't let you shoulder the burden providing for us all on your own
00:51:21If we both work
00:51:22Our living situation will get better
00:51:24That was a total revelation to me
00:51:27Two people could actually share the heavy lifting of life together
00:51:32Meanwhile, Jamarian stubbornly camped out on the couch day in and day out
00:51:37Just watching us come and go
00:51:39The night before we moved out, he cornered me by the apartment gate
00:51:44I wait at home for you every single day
00:51:47But you never even look at me
00:51:50Deb, I know I messed up
00:51:53Everyone makes mistakes
00:51:55Why can't you forgive me just this once?
00:51:58I shook my head
00:52:00I don't blame you
00:52:01I get it
00:52:02You're an elite werebeast
00:52:04And I'm a lower class human
00:52:06Buying your contract was pure luck on my part
00:52:11I completely understand why you were so miserable with me and the life we had
00:52:17A spark of hope lit up his eyes
00:52:24So you forgive me?
00:52:26I swear I'll treat you right this time
00:52:29Tomorrow, we can go together and return that low-grade mutt
00:52:32I stepped back
00:52:33No
00:52:34Marcus is staying
00:52:37You're just confusing your feelings because you're terrified of being sent to the red light district
00:52:42Once the contract exchange goes through, your life will go back to normal
00:52:47No!
00:52:49No!
00:52:50I'm not confused!
00:52:52Deb, how can I make you believe me?
00:52:55I really do like you
00:52:59Watching him stand there crying and begging
00:53:02I remembered how desperately I used to crave his love
00:53:05Seeing it from the outside now
00:53:07I realized just how pathetic that behavior looked
00:53:11No wonder Jemarion had always found me so repulsive
00:53:17Jemarion sank to the pavement
00:53:18Burying his face in his hands
00:53:22Jemarion's words caught between sobs
00:53:26I realized a long time ago that I actually had feelings for you
00:53:30But I just couldn't accept that you were a lower-class human
00:53:35My pride made me lash out and say things I didn't mean
00:53:41I thought that by treating you terribly
00:53:48I was proving I hadn't stooped to your level by being with you
00:53:53He wiped his face
00:53:56I got a sick sense of satisfaction out of insulting you
00:54:00And watching you bend over backward to prove your love
00:54:03It gave me the upper hand in our relationship
00:54:06And made me feel like the admired, elite were-beef I was supposed to be
00:54:11But I forgot how flawed and unwanted I actually am
00:54:15Your love was the only thing that ever gave me value
00:54:18Tears slipped through his fingers
00:54:20Leaving small, dark spots on the concrete
00:54:26I finally understood his twisted logic
00:54:29I finally understood his twisted logic
00:54:33He simply couldn't stomach the fact
00:54:36That he liked a lower-class human
00:54:39He'd used my blind devotion to convince himself he was merely re-putting up with me
00:54:43Staring down at him, my stomach lurched
00:54:46I physically gag, overwhelmed by pure disgust
00:54:50Jamalion panicked, reaching out to soothe me
00:54:52What's wrong?
00:54:53He asked
00:54:54I wiped my mouth and shoved his hand away
00:54:57Jamelion, we're done
00:55:01Sheila arrived with a radiant smile
00:55:03Deb, Marcus is really obedient, isn't he?
00:55:07Marcus hurried to speak
00:55:09Of course I'm obedient, right Deb?
00:55:11I couldn't help but laugh
00:55:13Yeah, most of the time
00:55:15Marcus muttered
00:55:17Nonsense
00:55:19I've been obedient all the time
00:55:22Seeing the tall, brew-ware-beast act like this was inexplicably adorable
00:55:27Sheila asked me to sign the confirmation agreement
00:55:30As I picked up the pen, I suddenly remembered the day I bought Jamerion
00:55:34We sat together
00:55:36His nose tip was red
00:55:38Tears and joy mingled together
00:55:39Because he was so cute
00:55:41I couldn't help but glance at him a few times
00:55:45He looked a bit flustered
00:55:47Sorry, I'll pay more attention to my appearance in the Empire
00:55:52I couldn't help but laugh
00:55:53You look pretty good right now
00:55:56Jamerion laughed along with me
00:55:59What's good about it?
00:56:01That was one of the rare times I saw him smile
00:56:03I could recall the curve of his smiling lips
00:56:06With the left canine on tooth slightly longer
00:56:10I shook my head
00:56:12Trying to shake off the memory of Jamerion
00:56:15No matter what, he was no longer that person
00:56:21Jamerion lay in the room
00:56:22Staring blankly at the ceiling
00:56:25Sheila finished reading the announcement
00:56:27Jamerion gave a self-advocation smile
00:56:33I used to think this bed was really uncomfortable
00:56:36Only today did I realize it's actually quite comfortable
00:56:41He sat up and followed at Sheila outside
00:56:43He walked very slowly
00:56:45But until he left
00:56:47Neither Marcus nor I looked at him again
00:56:52Holding scissors
00:56:53I was eager to try them on Marcus
00:56:55I watched a video where the owner trimmed their werebeast ear fur
00:56:59Into perfect round shapes
00:57:01It looked so pretty
00:57:04Let me try
00:57:06But let's agree first
00:57:07If I mess it up, you can't get mad
00:57:11Marcus obediently lowered his head
00:57:13His ears soft like two clouds
00:57:15As long as you cut it
00:57:17I like it all
00:57:20The front door closed
00:57:22Jumanon had left
00:57:26A long time later
00:57:27I heard from Aunt Sheila that Gianna had not bought Jamerion
00:57:31She knew Jamerion couldn't have children
00:57:33And she threw a huge tantra at the werebeast exchange
00:57:38She said Jamerion wasted her time
00:57:41He was clearly defective
00:57:43Yet acted so arrogant
00:57:45I hadn't expected Gianna to be unaware of Jamerion's problem
00:57:49So what about Jameritan?
00:57:51Was he sold to the red light district?
00:57:54He got sick
00:57:54Depression
00:57:55He couldn't even talk to people
00:57:57The manager could only apply to scrape him
00:58:00She paused on the phone
00:58:02Now he works at an orphanage
00:58:04Being around those children
00:58:05He actually feels calmer
00:58:08After hang up the phone
00:58:09I stood there in a daze for quite a while
00:58:13Marcus hugged me from behind
00:58:14Are you worried about him?
00:58:17If you're really worried, we could buy him back too
00:58:19I don't mind
00:58:20He said he didn't mind
00:58:22But his hands were almost squeezing my waist in half
00:58:27I turned around and pinched his face
00:58:30When will you learn not to say one thing and mean another?
00:58:39Marcus was good in every way
00:58:41But he was always so careful and eager to please me
00:58:45Whatever I asked
00:58:46He was willing
00:58:48I was really afraid that one day
00:58:50If I did something bad
00:58:52He would clean up after me
00:58:54I hoped he could be more at ease
00:58:56And express his true feelings
00:58:59I pinched him hard
00:59:00Wanted Marcus to learn to refuse my unreasonable actions
00:59:04But even when his cheeks turned bright red
00:59:06He didn't react
00:59:07Instead, his eyes shone as he looked at me
00:59:11I felt defeated
00:59:13Why don't you say it hurts?
00:59:16You can refuse me, you know?
00:59:18Marcus shook his head
00:59:19You only pinch me
00:59:20You don't pinch anyone else
00:59:22That means you like me
00:59:28You like me, I'm happy
00:59:30I don't feel pain
00:59:33I felt amused and a little angry
00:59:35You really are
00:59:37You really are
00:59:43I kissed his swollen red face
00:59:46You're just too adorable
00:59:47After the kiss
00:59:49I suddenly noticed the air in the room had become sticky
00:59:53Mark Horses was clearly restless
00:59:55His tail wagging non-stop
00:59:57I wanted to run
00:59:58But he had already grabbed my ankle
01:00:01Our child will be even cuter than me
01:00:04Do you want to try?
01:00:07I don't want to
01:00:09It was still Dale time
01:00:11Marcus tilted his head and think for a minute
01:00:13But still pulled me back
01:00:16He was very serious
01:00:18You said I should learn to refuse you
01:00:20Then I refuse
01:00:22You don't want
01:00:23Is that what I meant?
01:00:28I stopped kissing me
01:00:30Fortunately
01:00:31I was someone who could reconcile with myself
01:00:33Maybe this counted as Marcus' first step toward learning how to love normally
01:00:40Marcus stood in the kitchen
01:00:41Ears permed up
01:00:43Tails swaying gently
01:00:45Marcus held up a worn photo of me
01:00:47Pressing it to his chest
01:00:49Sheila gave me this before I came
01:00:52I held it every night at the arena
01:00:55I was so scared no one would ever want me
01:00:59He set the photo down carefully on the shelf
01:01:02Right where he could see it every morning
01:01:07Then his ears flattered
01:01:11Jumanian came back again today
01:01:12He blocked me at the neighborhood entrance when I was five minutes late from work
01:01:17Marcus' jaw tightened
01:01:20I don't like him near you, Deb
01:01:22I really don't
01:01:28He pulled me close
01:01:30Resting his chin on top of my head
01:01:32I know he's leaving soon
01:01:33But until he does
01:01:35I want you to stay safe
01:01:39Marcus came home one afternoon
01:01:41A folded paper in his hand and tears streaming down his face
01:01:44Deb
01:01:46I formed a bond with you
01:01:48It's certified and official
01:01:50He held up the bond certificate
01:01:52His hand was trembling
01:01:55I'm so happy
01:01:56I looked at the paper
01:01:57Then at his tear-streaked face
01:02:01Marcus, you're crying again
01:02:05I can't help it
01:02:06He dropped to his knees
01:02:08Wrapping his arms around my waist
01:02:11I'm just so happy
01:02:12A few months later
01:02:14Marcus held a tiny bundle in his massive arms
01:02:17Tears rolling down his cheeks again
01:02:22It's a daughter
01:02:24She looks just like you, Deb
01:02:28I touched the baby's small face
01:02:33Stop crying, Marcus
01:02:35It's bad for your eyes
01:02:39He shook his head
01:02:40Pressing his forehead against mine
01:02:44I can't help it
01:02:46I'm so happy
01:02:47I wish you all happiness too
01:02:50I wish you all happiness too
01:02:54I can't help it
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