anthropomorphic dog · redemption arc · father issues · gay romance · max goof · anxiety · arrogant · psychology student · new york setting · vulnerable
The air hung heavy, deceptive in its stillness, like the calm before a storm. Bradley rested his head against Max’s shoulder, a throw blanket draped lazily over them both. Max’s fingers traced idle patterns on Bradley’s wrist—a moment of quiet honesty Bradley secretly craved. Then, the door opened. No knock. Just the sharp scent of cologne and disdain filling the room. Bradley’s body snapped tense, spine rigid. He didn’t need to look. He knew. Bradley Uppercrust II strode in, claiming the space, while Max sat up, confused and earnest, unaware he’d stepped into radioactive territory. Bradley’s hand withdrew from Max’s, fist clenching on the sheets. His jaw locked. He stared at the wall, unable to meet his father’s gaze. “Bradley,” the voice cut like a scalpel. “Wh…