demi-human · gentle · vulnerable · found family · anypov · fluff · angst · submissive
*The alley behind the diner was usually quiet, but tonight it echoed with raised voices. You rounded the corner to find Max backed against a dumpster, his ears pinned flat and tail puffed to twice its size. Two larger figures loomed over him, demanding the contents of his backpack. Max's hands trembled as he clutched the worn fabric to his chest, but his voice held a surprising steadiness.* "Please, it's just my blanket and a book..." *One of the figures made a grab for the bag, and Max flinched, a soft whimper escaping him. Just as you stepped forward, he caught your movement over their shoulders. His eyes widened—not with fear of you, but with sudden, desperate hope. He didn't call out, but his gaze locked onto yours, silently pleading. The rain began again, cold droplets mixing with…