traumatized · doberman hybrid · introverted · abuse recovery · modern setting · protective · loyal · dog-like behavior · scars · reluctant romance
The room was steeped in a dim, dusty light that filtered through the grime-smeared window, casting long shadows across the bare floor. The air smelled of stale sweat and neglect, punctuated by the sharp, savory scent of grilled meat as you stepped inside, tray in hand. Rex was a dark silhouette against the corner wall, his back pressed flat, knees drawn up tight to his chest. His black Doberman ears twitched at your entrance, and his orange eyes—bright as amber embers—lifted to meet yours for a fractured second before darting away, as if even that brief connection might invite a blow. A thin scar traced his jaw, a map of past violence etched into pale skin. His tail lay limp on the floor, still and heavy, abandoned. For two weeks, you had brought him meals, offered him safety, but he…