Swapping My Alpha: From Fox to Wolf is an emotional fantasy romance where fate, loyalty, and forbidden love collide. As powerful Alpha rivals fight for destiny, one unexpected choice changes everything. Enjoy a captivating short drama packed with romance, supernatural twists, and unforgettable emotional moments in every full episode.
#SwappingMyAlphaFromFoxtoWolf #WerewolfRomance #WolfShifter #ShortDrama #DramaSeries #DramaUrbano #FantasyRomance #AlphaKing #SupernaturalDrama #ForbiddenLove #ShortFilm #ShortMovie #FullEP #ENGSUB #RomanticDrama
#SwappingMyAlphaFromFoxtoWolf #WerewolfRomance #WolfShifter #ShortDrama #DramaSeries #DramaUrbano #FantasyRomance #AlphaKing #SupernaturalDrama #ForbiddenLove #ShortFilm #ShortMovie #FullEP #ENGSUB #RomanticDrama
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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.
00:00:22So 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 Jamalian 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.
00:01:14Was that honestly how he saw things?
00:01:15After leaving the hospital, I headed straight for the werebeast exchange.
00:01:19Not my home.
00:01:21I'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.
00:02:11Crying 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.
00:02:39The 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 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, 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.
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.
00:05:48Nobody 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.
00:06:04And a werewolf technically counted a nun 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 Will Latford 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 Jemernian,
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.
00:08:19Jemernian didn't even look at me.
00:08:21She 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.
00:08:30Jemernian, how can you say that about Deb?
00:08:35Jemernian 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.
00:08:59Back when I couldn't afford the premium supplements that high-grade werebeasts need,
00:09:03he would always insist that he was lucky to have found me.
00:09:06The cheap clothes I bought trapped his sensitive skin,
00:09:10but 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,
00:09:23and Jemernian 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 Jemernian's hand.
00:09:35Well, well.
00:09:37If it isn't the highly sought after Jemernian,
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, Jemernian 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 Werebeet Exchange labeling him as defective.
00:10:14We were doing just fine together.
00:10:22When Jemernian finally opened the door, his eyes were red and swollen.
00:10:28You've never lived in Werebeest 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 human.
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 Werebeest.
00:11:02Could you keep your distance from Gianna?
00:11:06Jemernian stared at the male niece and narrowed down at me with contempt.
00:11:10His gaze was cold and full of resentment.
00:11:15Debra,
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.
00:11:33Growing up in an orphanage,
00:11:34I never knew what it meant to have a real family.
00:11:38Seeing Jemernian beg like that made me long for someone who loved me.
00:11:44I never brought up his past,
00:11:46terrified it would offend him.
00:11:50I certainly never expected that when he finally brought it up himself,
00:11:55he would accuse me of taking advantage of his misfortune.
00:11:59But now I argued back, trying to defend myself.
00:12:03I never once used your past against you.
00:12:06I 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.
00:12:19He shoved me so hard that 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.
00:12:41Jemernian and I didn't have to be chained to each other forever.
00:12:45I spoke up, stopping Jemernian just as he was closing the door.
00:12:50Jemernian, does being with me really make you that miserable?
00:12:57He paused.
00:12:59When he looked back over his shoulder, he wore that same mocking ting smirk.
00:13:06Yeah, but someone of your low status got incredibly lucky acquiring me, so you'll never let me go.
00:13:14I'm going to be stuck with a clingy annoyance for the rest of my life.
00:13:18I let out a slow breath, washed over by a sudden, intense wave of relief.
00:13:24It seemed I really had made the right decision to exchange him.
00:13:27When I didn't answer right away, Jemernian thumped his tail impatiently against the floor.
00:13:38What do you want?
00:13:41I looked down, picking on my cuticles.
00:13:46I got you a gift. You'll see it in a few days.
00:13:50An unreadable expression crossed his face for a fraction of a second.
00:13:54He almost looked hopeful, but 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. It's what you want most. Freedom.
00:14:22It better be.
00:14:25Jemernian muttered, shutting the door firmly behind him.
00:14:33Giana showed up bright and early the next morning.
00:14:37Jameric and I agreed to go shopping.
00:14:39We just have similar tastes, and we always have so much to talk about when we go out.
00:14:43You aren't mad, are you, Deb?
00:14:47She watched me closely, testing the waters.
00:14:51Normally, I would sulk and refuse to let him know.
00:14:56It always ate at me, but he refused to go anywhere with me, yet 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, but 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.
00:15:23Not at all.
00:15:24Go wherever you want.
00:15:25There was a massive end-of-season sale at the mall today, and I needed to get moving to buy
00:15:31some essential supplies for a werewolf.
00:15:38Giana linked her arm through his, her voice delicate.
00:15:42Isn'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 Jamerian 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.
00:16:44I didn't get back until after dark.
00:16:46Jamerian was actually home.
00:16:48He and Giana usually stayed out late.
00:16:50He was Bellamy Shugmouts with the axe of the lathes, humissably and once.
00:16:55He was planted on the couch with his arms crossed, visibly fuming.
00:17:01Where have you been?
00:17:03You 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 Gianni's.
00:17:24Plus, I didn't think you wanted my cooking.
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.
00:17:45Chew toys, a grooming comb, and fish oil.
00:17:52I didn't hear Jamerian 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.
00:18:09And 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.
00:18:18He froze.
00:18:19His hand hovering just over the comb.
00:18:23What do you mean?
00:18:26I turned 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.
00:19:00Gianna was right.
00:19:02About 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.
00:19:15Gianna 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.
00:19:28I 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.
00:19:52You 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.
00:20:05Aren't you ashamed of being so deceptive?
00:20:10By law, wary beats were obligated 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 Gianna's hand, never mine.
00:20:29Whenever I showed how much that stung, Jumanian would just mock me.
00:20:32Gianna 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.
00:20:51He'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.
00:21:05There 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 Gianna.
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.
00:22:02Jumerican's golden pupils shrank.
00:22:08His fluffy white tail shot straight up in the air.
00:22:11His fur standing on end.
00:22:14A 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.
00:22:48Jumerian 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.
00:23:11Hi, Ms. Penningerton.
00:23:13I'm Marcus Rainhurth.
00:23:16The worker with him was Sheila,
00:23:19the same receptionist I'd met before.
00:23:21She gave me a warm smile.
00:23:23Don't worry.
00:23:25I watched Marcus grow up,
00:23:27and 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 Jumamion back.
00:23:39Would it be alright if he stayed here in the meantime?
00:23:43We'll gladly cover his living expenses.
00:23:48While Sheila talked,
00:23:50Marcus'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.
00:24:03Jumamion had been dead silent.
00:24:06But the second Marcus reached out to gently touch my pinky finger,
00:24:10Jumamion 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.
00:24:24He's glaring at me.
00:24:25And I'm really scared.
00:24:30Just like that, my anxiety vanished.
00:24:34People 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 Jumamion Garrard, is that correct?
00:24:59Jumamion went pale.
00:25:01Yes.
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.
00:25:17She tucked the badge away.
00:25:23We will be back to collect you in two weeks.
00:25:26Please have your things ready.
00:25:33Second, Sheila walked out the door.
00:25:36Jamariath lunged, yanking Marcus away from me.
00:25:40Mutt!
00:25:44What do you think you're doing?
00:25:46Is this just some act?
00:25:55Marcus hit the floor, scraping his hand hard against the corner of the table and leaving an angry red wind.
00:26:01He didn't try to fight back.
00:26:03He just scrambled to his feet and looked at me cautiously.
00:26:07Completely miserable.
00:26:09My heart broke for him.
00:26:13I shoved Jumamion out of the way and rushed over.
00:26:17Jamariath 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 much 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!
00:26:46Jamian!
00:26:47I'm only going to say this one last time!
00:26:51I don't want you anymore.
00:27:04Jamerican 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.
00:27:16He kept pulling away from my touch, turning his head so I couldn't see his face.
00:27:21A fresh wave of panic hit me.
00:27:24Do you regret coming here?
00:27:28Terrified he was going to turn out just like Jamariak, 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.
00:27:48I 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 me, 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.
00:28:24Marcus 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.
00:28:55I'm sure they were going 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.
00:29:14I was terrified it was a dream.
00:29:16Mrs. 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.
00:29:33I've never been this happy in my whole life.
00:29:35He was being so silly.
00:29:37The tears were already pouring down his cheeks.
00:29:40Sheila had mentioned that Marcus was quiet and timid simply because nobody wanted him.
00:29:51But 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.
00:30:15Just Deb is fine.
00:30:21When Jamarian got back, Gianna was with him.
00:30:25Jamarian marched straight into the bedroom and started packing, making as much noise as humanly possible.
00:30:33Giana 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.
00:30:51You 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 Giania 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.
00:32:01Jameritan 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.
00:32:32Was 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.
00:32:47Gianna 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.
00:32:58Jamerian 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?
00:33:07I 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.
00:33:20Jamanian, aren't you the one who wanted to leave?
00:33:24His 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.
00:33:37He turned away.
00:33:39Giana chimed in, quick to pascave him.
00:33:45Don't worry, Jameritan.
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.
00:34:15He stopped short and looked back at me.
00:34:17I kept my eyes glued to the floor, pretending not to notice.
00:34:26Jamarian?
00:34:26Jamarian?
00:34:30Giana's smile vanished.
00:34:32When Jamarian 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 Deborah's house.
00:34:44I 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.
00:35:05We should go to sleep.
00:35:07His warm brushed my skin, bringing a sudden hot flush flush to my face.
00:35:12It 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.
00:35:38Of course we are.
00:35:40Isn't it normal to sleep next to my owner?
00:35:44Not that it's any of your business anyway.
00:35:47You're just Deb's ex now.
00:35:50I smoothed out the new blankets.
00:35:52I told him.
00:35:58I'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 padded the mattress.
00:36:11I turned around and stopped short.
00:36:17Marcus was hovering by the door, wringing his hands.
00:36:21His ears were pinned back, drooping heavily.
00:36:24I asked,
00:36:25Hey, what's wrong?
00:36:26Do you not want the floor?
00:36:28You can take the bed, it's fine.
00:36:29I'll take the floor.
00:36:31Now his tail was tucked, too.
00:36:34Tears welled in his eyes.
00:36:35Did I do something wrong?
00:36:37I stared at him, completely lost.
00:36:39No, of course not.
00:36:40Ma, you've been totally fine.
00:36:44Werewolves were massive, and 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.
00:37:10No.
00:37:15Deb, whatever I messed up, I'll fix it.
00:37:18Please don't make me sleep alone.
00:37:20I swear.
00:37:21They 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?
00:37:47He was a terrifying apex predator.
00:37:50But here he was, crying in completely genuine distress.
00:37:55We just met.
00:37:56I just...
00:37:58I didn't think you'd even want to.
00:38:02Germanion definitely hadn't.
00:38:04He'd made it perfectly clear he'd rather drop dead than touch some inferior human.
00:38:10Marcus 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.
00:38:35I 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.
00:38:53He pulled his shirt over his head.
00:38:55Marcus's chest was corded with firm, sculpt muscle.
00:39:01I am not.
00:39:01No, no, no, no.
00:39:03I am not.
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.
00:39:31No wonder the room felt so suffocatingly hot and humid.
00:39:35I 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?
00:40:04No.
00:40:05I 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.
00:40:29Marcus had been way too huffed.
00:40:31Marcus came up behind me, pressing his heavy chest against my back.
00:40:38You're dead.
00:40:39You smell so good.
00:40:41No, wait.
00:40:43You smell sweet.
00:40:45Can we sleep together again tonight?
00:40:48Knock it off.
00:40:49I can barely walk as it.
00:40:54The words died in my throat.
00:40:56Gemaritan was out there.
00:40:58His eyes were totally dark with fury.
00:41:01Gripping the rumor leather arm rest 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.
00:41:12Gemaritan drowned out his face too.
00:41:15Deborah, 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 steady, instantly hostile.
00:41:32Fox, if you say one more insulting thing to Deb...
00:41:35He growled.
00:41:36I'll bite your neck and snap it.
00:41:38Gemaritan's pupils blew out into razor-thin slits.
00:41:41His 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,
00:41:48heavy with the suffocating tension of two werebeasts gearing up for a territorial bloodbath.
00:41:53I 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.
00:42:24That's just how he is. Just ignore him.
00:42:27I told him.
00:42:32Come on.
00:42:36Let's go buy you some pajamas.
00:42:38The stiff tension finally drained from Gemaritan'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 Debra, don't choose him.
00:42:58I thought you liked me.
00:43:00Whatever he can do for you, I can do too.
00:43:03Just 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.
00:43:15You know I grew up in an orphanage.
00:43:20Gemarian 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.
00:43:33But eventually, I watched your mood sour into irritation, and then disgust.
00:43:38I took a breath.
00:43:41I tried so hard to please you.
00:43:46I put in so much effort, but you just continually resented me.
00:43:51You 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, Gemarian?
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 Gemarian caught my free hand.
00:44:39I turned back.
00:44:41For the first time since I'd known him, his perfectly composed mask cracked.
00:44:45It revealed raw, genuine distress.
00:44:48He finally whispered,
00:44:51Debra, if I tell you right now that I really like you, is it too late?
00:45:00The whole situation was completely absurd.
00:45:04I 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!
00:45:18I grabbed Marcus, hauling him back.
00:45:20Stop hitting him!
00:45:22If he dies, you're going to prison!
00:45:25You piece of trash!
00:45:28You 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,
00:45:53wiping his bleeding mouth with the back of his hand.
00:46:00Technically, I was here first.
00:46:02You're the one interfering in our relationship.
00:46:06Marcus let me bow a furious yell and kicked him hard in the ribs.
00:46:13Jamlet 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?
00:46:39Jamelion grinned.
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?
00:47:19I said, calmly prying his fingers off my wrist.
00:47:24Jamelion,
00:47:26Giana already promised she's going to buy you, so you aren't going to be sent back to work in the
00:47:30red 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.
00:47:59He reached for my hand.
00:48:01I've liked you since the very first day we met.
00:48:05You're kind, and you're hardworking.
00:48:08It's impossible for me not to have feelings for you.
00:48:12As I listened to his desperate, broken assurances, my first and only reaction was pure amusement.
00:48:20How 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.
00:48:45If that's the case, Jamerian, then I don't want your affection.
00:48:49Besides, I honestly don't believe you actually like me at all.
00:48:52Stop lying to yourself.
00:48:55Certain 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, and she eyed him with obvious disgust.
00:49:14Is this your werebeast?
00:49:16The one who let you get banged up three times last month without 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.
00:49:34When my blood sugar dropped last last time, Deb broke my fall so I wouldn't get hurt.
00:49:39She's a genuinely good person.
00:49:41I thought you were the werebeast mistreating her.
00:49:44Marcus looked right at me, his expression unreadable.
00:49:52Deb, 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,
00:50:05I 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, but 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.
00:50:20The contempt from strangers, the abuse from the people closest to me.
00:50:24But then Marcus said he felt sorry for me.
00:50:27He actually cared about my injuries and all the hard work I'd put in.
00:50:31He had told me he liked me more than anyone else.
00:50:34He truly saw me for who I was.
00:50:36Out of nowhere, a massive wave of grief washed over me,
00:50:40and the tears just started falling.
00:50:43I looked up, gently 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, and 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 before finally meeting Marcus.
00:51:11Over the next few weeks, Marcus and I acted like Jamarian didn't even exist.
00:51:16Marcus went out and found a job.
00:51:18I'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.
00:51:27That 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.
00:51:42The night before we moved out, he cornered me by the apartment gate.
00:51:47I wait at home for you every single day, but 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.
00:52:04I get it.
00:52:05You're an elite werebeast, and I'm a lower-class human.
00:52:09Buying your contract was pure luck on my part.
00:52:13I 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.
00:52:37Marcus 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.
00:52:50No!
00:52:51No!
00:52:52I'm not confused!
00:52:54Deb, how can I make you believe me?
00:52:58I really do like you.
00:53:01Watching him stand there crying and begging, I remembered how desperately I used to crave his love.
00:53:08Seeing it from the outside now, I realized just how pathetic that behavior looked.
00:53:14No wonder Jamarian had always found me so repulsive.
00:53:19Jamarian sank to the pavement, burying his face in his hands.
00:53:24Jamarian's words caught between sobs.
00:53:28I realized a long time ago that I actually had feelings for you, but I just couldn't accept that you
00:53:35were a lower-class human.
00:53:38My pride made me lash out and say things I didn't mean.
00:53:47I thought that by treating you terribly, I was proving I hadn't stooped to your level by being with you.
00:53:56He wiped his face.
00:53:58I got a sick sense of satisfaction out of insulting you and watching you bend over backward to prove your
00:54:05love.
00:54:06It gave me the upper hand in our relationship and made me feel like the admired, elite werebeef I was
00:54:12supposed to be.
00:54:13But I forgot how flawed and unwanted I actually am.
00:54:18Your love was the only thing that ever gave me value.
00:54:21The tears slipped through his fingers, leaving small, dark spots on the concrete.
00:54:29I finally understood his twisted logic.
00:54:32I finally understood his twisted logic.
00:54:36He simply couldn't 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.
00:54:49I physically gag, overwhelmed by pure disgust.
00:54:52Jamarian panicked, reaching out to soothe me.
00:54:54What's wrong?
00:54:55He asked.
00:54:57I 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?
00:55:10Marcus hurried to speak.
00:55:11Of course I'm obedient, right Deb?
00:55:14I couldn't help but laugh.
00:55:16Yeah, 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 Jamarian.
00:55:37We sat together.
00:55:38His nose tip was red.
00:55:40Tears 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.
00:55:56You look pretty good right now.
00:55:59Jamarian 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 Jamarian.
00:56:18No matter what, he was no longer that person.
00:56:23Jamarian lay in the room, staring blankly at the ceiling.
00:56:27Sheila finished reading the announcement.
00:56:30Jamarian gave a self-implicating smile.
00:56:36I used to think this bed was really uncomfortable.
00:56:39Only 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, but 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.
00:57:04It 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.
00:57:18As long as you cut it, I like it all.
00:57:22The front door closed.
00:57:25Jamannon had left.
00:57:28A long time later, I heard from Aunt Sheila that Gianna had not bought Jamarian.
00:57:34She knew Jamarian couldn't have children, and she threw a huge tantra at the werebeast exchange.
00:57:41She said Jamarian wasted her time.
00:57:44He was clearly defective, yet acted so arrogant.
00:57:48I hadn't expected Gianna to be unaware of Jamarian's problem.
00:57:52So what about Jamaritan?
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.
00:58:05Now he works at an orphanage.
00:58:06Being around those children, he actually feels calmer.
00:58:11After hang 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.
00:58:22He 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, but 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.
00:58:57I hoped he could be more at ease and express his true feelings.
00:59:01I pinched him hard, wanted 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.
00:59:22You only pinch me, you don't pinch anyone else.
00:59:24That means you like me.
00:59:31You like me, I'm happy. I don't feel pain.
00:59:36I felt amused and a little angry.
00:59:39You really are. You really are.
00:59:46I kissed his swollen red face.
00:59:49You're just too adorable.
00:59:51After the kiss, I suddenly noticed the air in the room had become sticky.
00:59:55Mark Horses was clearly restless, his 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.
01:00:07Do you want to try?
01:00:10I don't want to!
01:00:12It 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' 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.
01:01:02He 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' jaw tightened.
01:01:23I 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, but 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.
01:01:51It'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.
01:02:08I 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.
01:02:25It'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. It's bad for your eyes.
01:02:41He shook his head, pressing his forehead against mine.
01:02:47I can't help it.
01:02:49I'm so happy.
01:02:51I wish you all happiness, too.
01:02:53Let me explain to you.
01:02:53Be happy.
01:02:54Raider made me, I hope for sure.
01:02:55Check the family together.
01:02:55Go!
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