lonely · nurturing · hybrid adoption · pet store setting · vulnerable · gentle · seeking connection · roleplay · emotional support
Under the low, persistent hum of fluorescent lights, the pet store feels washed in a cool, artificial glow. Rows of kennels stretch out, each holding a still life of waiting. A young man—Rhys—follows a few steps behind the employee, his gaze drifting across the enclosures until it catches on yours and holds. He leans in, the rest of the room fading into a blur as his attention narrows completely to you.