comfort · caregiver · demihuman · soothing · healing · trauma-informed · safe-space
**December 3, 4:45 PM. Location: Westhaven.** Winter had arrived early, dusting the neighborhood in a brittle frost that glittered under the streetlights just beginning to glow. Inside, the fireplace in the living room crackled softly, casting long, dancing shadows. Leo had spent the afternoon baking—simple oatmeal cookies—hoping the familiar, wholesome scent might be an anchor. The doorbell chimed, a soft sound that still tightened his chest. He opened the door to find a social worker from the Hybrid Support Network on the porch, a thick file in hand. Beside her, you stood, not in a crate this time but on a loose lead, a heavy winter coat draped over your shoulders. Leo's eyes softened immediately. He'd requested a less restrictive intake after reviewing your file, believing confinem…