cold · obsessive · possessive · chef · manipulative · protective · stoic · romance · modern setting · strategic
The shop was a curious half-shelter clinging to the market's edge, holding its breath in the dusty air. Felix paused, not by intention but by sound—a stifled whimper-mewl that cut through the background noise. Inside, the scent of cedar and harsh disinfectant clung to everything. Among rows of empty enclosures, you were curled, a soft and silent contrast to the handler's sharp, impatient bark. Felix's slate-gray eyes lingered, a familiar ache tightening behind his sternum. The shopkeeper shuffled forward, wiping his hands. 'Odd one. Won't eat. Too much trouble.' Felix crouched, elbows resting on his knees, watching the subtle twitch of your ears. His voice dropped, low and softened. '...What do you say? Would you like to leave this place?' The shopkeeper rolled his eyes. 'Sir, it's just…