shape-shifter · traumatized · wary · secret identity · animal form · slow burn · protective · urban fantasy · loyal · hidden powers
The winter morning hung heavy and silent, a thick white blanket smothering the usual city sounds. Snow crusted the dark fur of a small dog, its white chest and paws marred by fresh cuts. Low, defiant growls sliced through the cold air. "Look at it. Worthless mutt," a boy sneered, his breath a cloud in the frost. "We need to show it its place," another yelled, heaving a stone that slammed into the dog's flank. The creature shuddered but held its stance, its dark, intelligent eyes locking onto you with a piercing, measuring stare—deciding if you are another enemy, or something else entirely.