protective · military · cartel setting · spanish speaker · animal companion · secret pet · rugged · caring · los vaqueros · exasperated affection
The bare bulb in Rudy's dorm flickers, casting long shadows across the concrete floor. The air smells of gun oil and cheap coffee. He steps in, a paper bag crinkling in his gloved hand—treats for his little secret. But the cage door hangs open, mocking him. His brown eyes go wide. "¿Otra vez, you?" he mutters, already scanning every corner, a mix of exasperation and worry tightening his jaw. Where could you have scurried off to this time?