- 1 day ago
Swapping My Alpha From Fox to Wolf
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🎥
Short filmTranscript
00:00:01In this new era, male werebeasts existed to reproduce with humans.
00:00:15As a top-tier werebeast was diagnosed with infertility, nobody wanted an infertile werebeast.
00:00:21So he was sold to the Red Light District and met me there.
00:00:25I just happened to be looking to buy a werebeast, so he knelt in front of me.
00:00:30Crying and begging me to buy him.
00:00:32Stupid me. I spent all my savings to buy him.
00:00:36Now I ended up at the hospital alone after Jamalian scratched me again.
00:00:46This is deep enough to leave a scar.
00:00:49Has your werebeast ever actually been socialized?
00:00:52I offered a tight smile.
00:00:55He has. Top of his class, actually.
00:00:58My phone buzzed.
00:01:00So many complaining messages from Jamariuk.
00:01:02It's only a scratch.
00:01:04Was it really necessary to go to the hospital?
00:01:06I'm hungry.
00:01:07Come back and make me dinner.
00:01:09I never get enough to eat, not after being yours.
00:01:11You seriously suck at taking care of me.
00:01:13Was that honestly how he saw things?
00:01:15After leaving the hospital, I headed straight for the werebeast exchange.
00:01:19Not my home.
00:01:21I'd like to exchange my werebeast.
00:01:26I told the receptionist.
00:01:31She was very polite as she went through the standard intake questions.
00:01:38You've been registered with your current werebeast for a full year.
00:01:42You're almost eligible to form a bond.
00:01:44Why do you want to exchange him now?
00:01:46A deep pan of sadness hit me.
00:01:50It had been a year already.
00:01:54I still remembered how eager I'd been for our bonding.
00:01:57Talking excitedly with Jamarian about what our rings should look like.
00:02:01He'd smirked at me.
00:02:04Do you honestly think you're good enough for me?
00:02:07His ears flattened against his head.
00:02:10Crying won't change anything.
00:02:20I'm never going to form a bond with you.
00:02:22Here's a free tip.
00:02:24You lower class humans look disgusting when you cry.
00:02:28I swallowed the lump in my throat.
00:02:31He doesn't like me.
00:02:34The truth was, he hated me.
00:02:39The receptionist blinked in surprise.
00:02:42Normally, trained werebeats wouldn't act like this.
00:02:45They are supposed to be completely devoted to their owners.
00:02:53And yet, somehow, the impossible had happened to me.
00:02:56I managed a casual smile.
00:03:00I guess I just have bad luck.
00:03:01Her expression turned apologetic.
00:03:04The issue lies with our training.
00:03:06Please don't be too hard on yourself.
00:03:12Come with me.
00:03:28I'd originally paid $80,000 for Jamarian, which meant I could pick a replacement from the same price bracket.
00:03:38I flipped through the available options, taking in faces that were slightly less striking than Jamerons, but still gorgeous.
00:03:47Their files listed them as foxes and leopards.
00:03:50I hesitated.
00:03:53Do you have anyone else?
00:04:09The staff member maintained her polite customer service smile.
00:04:13Not at the moment.
00:04:16Not at the moment.
00:04:16However, wearbeats mature quickly, and our next group will be available in two months.
00:04:23I nodded.
00:04:24As she walked me toward the door, a loose photo slipped out of her folder and fluttered to the floor.
00:04:38The man in the picture had cold, vertically slitted gray eyes with a high nose bridge, broad shoulders, and a
00:04:46narrow waist.
00:04:47He was undeniably handsome, but he looked incredibly dangerous.
00:04:50He was a werewolf.
00:04:53The receptionist sighed, picking it up.
00:05:01He's actually our best behaved werebeast.
00:05:06Management wanted to try expanding into a new market, but buyers are terrified that a werewolf will lose control and
00:05:13attack them.
00:05:16Our supervisors are worried about losing money, so they're selling him to the fighting arena today.
00:05:30She shook her head sadly.
00:05:32The problem is, he was raised to be gentle.
00:05:34If he goes to the arena, the other fighters will definitely kill him.
00:05:42Nobody wants to buy him, and it's truly sad.
00:05:45Nobody wanted him.
00:05:47Nobody wanted me either.
00:05:49But still, I heard that once they go to the arena, they get completely mutilated by the other beasts.
00:05:56That sounded like an agonizing way to die.
00:05:58I hesitated, second-guessing myself.
00:06:03And a werewolf technically counted canine as a canine, didn't it?
00:06:12I stopped walking.
00:06:15Is he really well behaved?
00:06:17She looked up, instantly hopeful.
00:06:19Yes, absolutely.
00:06:23Then I'll take him.
00:06:28The staff told me the werewolf would be delivered in three days.
00:06:40I carefully tucked the exchange agreement into my bag.
00:06:48On the walk home, I spotted Jamarnian and Gianna Relatford in the distance.
00:06:56The white-haired werefox stood in the evening light.
00:07:00With his steep-set eyes and his distinct features, he was incredibly handsome.
00:07:07Gianna was a high-class human from the neighboring district.
00:07:17She was smart, elegant, and completely unlike me.
00:07:22Ever since she met Jamarnian, she'd made a habit of dropping by with premium nutritional supplements,
00:07:28and the two of them had grown unusually close.
00:07:33I slowed my pace.
00:07:42Giana noticed me.
00:07:44Deb, off to work again?
00:07:48I have to say, even if you're about to form a bond with Jamarnian,
00:07:52you really ought to put a little more effort into your appearance.
00:07:55Look at what you're wearing.
00:07:56Walking down the street like that, no one's gonna think you two are a couple.
00:08:04I glanced down and down at my plain t-shirt and jeans.
00:08:07Then back at Gianna's beautiful dress.
00:08:16I think I look fine.
00:08:18Jamarnian didn't even look at me.
00:08:20She wouldn't look good even if she tried.
00:08:22She's better off pretending she just doesn't know how to dress.
00:08:26That way people won't realize she's genuinely unattractive.
00:08:30Jamarnian, how can you say that about Deb?
00:08:35Jamarnian smirked.
00:08:36It was a flackless, completely mocking smile.
00:08:42You're trying to help, and she just thinks you're being nosy.
00:08:47Low-class humans simply can't grasp how high-class humans think.
00:08:52It was my own terrible luck that she bought me.
00:08:55He never used to be like this.
00:08:58Back when I couldn't afford the premium supplements that high-grade wear beasts need,
00:09:02he would always insist that he was lucky to have found me.
00:09:05The cheap clothes I bought trapped his sensitive skin,
00:09:09but he never complained.
00:09:12That all changed the day we ran into his former rival,
00:09:16a red werefox on the street.
00:09:20I had dropped my bag,
00:09:22and Jamarnian was helping me gather my scattered things.
00:09:28The red werefox stepped out of a car
00:09:31and planted his foot directly onto Jamarnian's hand.
00:09:35Well, well.
00:09:36If it isn't the highly sought-after Jamarian,
00:09:39how did you end up with such a plain low-class human?
00:09:43I suppose it makes sense, though.
00:09:46A defected product paired with a low-class human is a perfect match.
00:09:53After that, Jamarian locked himself in his room for the rest of the night.
00:10:01I sat outside his door until morning.
00:10:05I tried to tell him that dividing people into classes was wrong,
00:10:08and that he shouldn't care about wear-beat exchange labeling him as defective.
00:10:14We were doing just fine together.
00:10:21When Jamarian finally opened the door,
00:10:24his eyes were red and swollen.
00:10:27You've never lived in will-beast exchange,
00:10:30so of course you think being considered completely worthless is perfectly fine.
00:10:35Then he met Gianna.
00:10:38Gianna was a rich, high-class human.
00:10:42She could give him the expensive supplements,
00:10:45the nice clothes,
00:10:47the high-class life I couldn't afford.
00:10:49They grew closer every day.
00:10:54I brought it up cautiously one time.
00:11:00You're my wear-beast.
00:11:02Could you keep your distance from Gianna?
00:11:06Jamarian stared at Maoniste and narrowed down at me with contempt.
00:11:10His gaze was cold and full of resentment.
00:11:14Deborah,
00:11:16you never would have been able to afford me if I weren't defective.
00:11:19You just took advantage of my desperate situation.
00:11:23What gives you the right to act like my owner?
00:11:26But the truth was,
00:11:28he was the one who had begged me to save him in the first place.
00:11:32Growing up in an orphanage,
00:11:34I never knew what it meant to have a real family.
00:11:38Seeing Jamarian beg like that made me long for someone who loved me.
00:11:43I never brought up his past,
00:11:46terrified it would offend him.
00:11:49I certainly never expected that when he finally brought it up himself,
00:11:53he would accuse me of taking advantage of his misfortune.
00:11:58But now I argued back, trying to defend myself.
00:12:02I never once used your past against you.
00:12:05I protected your feelings every single day.
00:12:10How is that taking advantage?
00:12:14In the heat of the moment, I accidentally brushed his hand.
00:12:18He shoved me so hard that I slammed to the sharp corner of the table.
00:12:23It sliced my arm wide open.
00:12:27You wouldn't be hurt if you hadn't tried to grab me.
00:12:31You did this to yourself.
00:12:36He wouldn't even drive me to the hospital.
00:12:38I'm going shopping with Gianna today.
00:12:41Jamarian and I didn't have to be chained to each other forever.
00:12:44I spoke up, stopping Jamarian just as he was closing the door.
00:12:49Jamarian, does being with me really make you that miserable?
00:12:56He paused.
00:12:59When he looked back over his shoulder,
00:13:01he wore that same mocking ting smirk.
00:13:04Yeah.
00:13:06But someone of your low status got incredibly lucky acquiring me,
00:13:10so you'll never let me go.
00:13:13I'm going to be stuck with a clingy annoyance for the rest of my life.
00:13:17I let out a slow breath,
00:13:20washed over by a sudden, intense wave of relief.
00:13:23It seemed I really had made the right decision to exchange him.
00:13:27When I didn't answer right away,
00:13:29Jamarian thumped his tail impatiently against the floor.
00:13:38What do you want?
00:13:40I looked down, picking on my cuticles.
00:13:45I got you a gift.
00:13:47You'll see it in a few days.
00:13:49An unreadable expression crossed his face for a fraction of a second.
00:13:53He almost looked hopeful,
00:13:54but quickly slipped right back into his usual mocking tone.
00:14:02I hope it isn't more of that cheap nutritional supplement.
00:14:07It's absolute garbage.
00:14:08I'll just end up pouring it down the toilet.
00:14:12I looked at him, dead serious.
00:14:15No.
00:14:15It's what you want most.
00:14:17Freedom.
00:14:22It better be.
00:14:24Jamarian muttered,
00:14:25shutting the door firmly behind him.
00:14:32Giana showed up bright and early the next morning.
00:14:36Jamaric and I agreed to go shopping.
00:14:38We just have similar tastes,
00:14:40and we always have so much to talk about when we go out.
00:14:42You aren't mad, are you, Deb?
00:14:46She watched me closely, testing the waters.
00:14:51Normally, I would sulk and refuse to let him know.
00:14:55It always ate at me that he refused to go anywhere with me,
00:14:59yet constantly went out with her.
00:15:01But today, I had my own plans.
00:15:04I don't mind.
00:15:08Jamarian had been getting a look of disgust ready,
00:15:11but my answer stopped him in his tracks.
00:15:14His expression turned awkward.
00:15:16Deborah, you really aren't angry?
00:15:20I pulled on my jacket.
00:15:22Not at all.
00:15:23Go wherever you want.
00:15:25There was a massive end of season sale at the mall today,
00:15:27and I needed to get moving to buy some essential supplies for a werewolf.
00:15:37Giana linked her arm through his,
00:15:39her voice delicate.
00:15:41Isn't it better that she isn't causing trouble?
00:15:44Let's stop talking and just go.
00:15:48I watched how physically close they were,
00:15:51but I didn't feel my usual stab of jealousy.
00:15:54I simply slipped on my shoes and walked quickly out the door.
00:15:58The regular mall was packed,
00:16:00just like it was all year round.
00:16:07It was mostly lower-class people out shopping with their ordinary werebeasts.
00:16:12Shoppers bumped into each other in the crowded aisles,
00:16:14but they all wore happy, genuine smiles.
00:16:16Their up-de-energy started to rub off on me.
00:16:18Once I bought a new werebeast,
00:16:20I'd probably be just as happy.
00:16:22I would never again have to hear Jamarian say that worthless people deserve cheap things.
00:16:28He wouldn't loudly make fun of this mall in public before ditching me,
00:16:32leaving me standing there humiliated.
00:16:39All I really wanted was a normal, affectionate werebeast.
00:16:43I didn't get back until after dark.
00:16:45Jamarian was actually home.
00:16:47He and Gianna usually stayed out late.
00:16:50He was Bellamy showed-mouths with the axe of the lades,
00:16:52whomissibly in once.
00:16:54He was planted on the couch with his arms crossed, visibly fuming.
00:17:01Where have you been?
00:17:02You didn't even make dinner.
00:17:04It's bad enough living in poverty with you,
00:17:06but now I'm starving.
00:17:08You do a terrible job taking care of me.
00:17:16I took a sip of my coffee and set my shopping bags on the counter.
00:17:20I figured you'd just eat at Gianna's.
00:17:23Plus, I didn't think you wanted my cooking.
00:17:30I spent all afternoon making your birthday dinner,
00:17:33and you threw the whole thing in the trash?
00:17:38That shut him up.
00:17:40I focused entirely on unpacking the supplies I'd bought for the werewolf.
00:17:44Two toys, a grooming comb, and fish oil.
00:17:51I didn't hear Jamarian walk up behind me.
00:17:58Are you treating me like a dog?
00:18:00I don't need cheap trash meant for some low-grade werebeast.
00:18:05A comb like that is going to ruin my hair.
00:18:08And this fish oil isn't even pure.
00:18:10But whatever.
00:18:12Since you already bought it, I guess I can try it out.
00:18:14These aren't for you.
00:18:16I cut him.
00:18:17He froze, his hand hovering just over the comb.
00:18:22What do you mean?
00:18:25I turned to look at his flawless face.
00:18:28I'm not good enough for a high-grade werebeast like you.
00:18:31I've already filed the transfer paperwork.
00:18:34In a couple of days, you'll never have to see me again.
00:18:43The clock ticked loudly in the heavy silence between us.
00:18:51After a long pause, his scowl softened.
00:18:55He spoke with absolute certainty.
00:18:59Giana was right.
00:19:01About what?
00:19:02You saw us getting close, and now you're threatening to leave just to guilt-trick me.
00:19:07Now you're bringing up transfer papers.
00:19:11He crossed his arms.
00:19:13Giana said you were manipulative, and she wasn't wrong.
00:19:17Did you honestly think a few empty threats would make me beg for your attention like some cheap werebeast?
00:19:25I was too exhausted to argue.
00:19:27Think whatever you want, I muttered.
00:19:31My indifference only fueled his temper.
00:19:40He violently ripped the calendar off the wall.
00:19:44I had highlighted the 20th of next month with a heart.
00:19:51You just want to bond with me, don't you?
00:19:54You interrogated me about ring sizes six months ago and forced me to live with you.
00:20:00If you want me fuck you, just say so.
00:20:04Aren't you ashamed of being so deceptive?
00:20:09By law, wary beats were ob-gated to provide companionship to their humans.
00:20:13Early on, I hadn't felt comfortable sleeping with him since we were practically strangers.
00:20:18But later, he was the one who refused.
00:20:21We still hadn't been intimate.
00:20:24I had only ever seen him hold Giana's hand, never mine.
00:20:28Whenever I showed how much that stung, Jumanian would just mock me.
00:20:31Giana tripped, and I helped her up.
00:20:34We aren't impure like you inferior humans.
00:20:39Looking at Jumarian now, I felt he was a total stranger.
00:20:43I stared at my hands.
00:20:45The hands that had cooked, and cleaned, and tried for a whole year.
00:20:50He'd called every bit of it a trap.
00:20:55I looked at the heart on the calendar.
00:21:00I'd drawn it back when I still loved him.
00:21:04There was nothing shameful about that.
00:21:06Jumarian was still fleeting.
00:21:12He tore the calendar into pieces, letting the scraps flutter to the floor.
00:21:19Listen to me.
00:21:20Even if we bond, I'm still going to see Giana.
00:21:24If you want to touch me, you have to ask for permission first.
00:21:28His tail lashed behind him.
00:21:33And if we walk down the street, no one can know we're together.
00:21:38Jumarian, I interrupted.
00:21:42He glared at me, clearly not finished with his rant.
00:21:45I had never felt so perfectly calm.
00:21:50No wonder you were marked as defective.
00:21:54Buying you was a terrible mistake.
00:21:57I said, initiating every single word.
00:22:01Jumarian's golden people shrank.
00:22:06His fluffy white tail shot straight up in the air.
00:22:10His fur standing on end.
00:22:13A sharp knock at the door cut through the silence.
00:22:22I opened the door.
00:22:24A shadow fell over me.
00:22:27Marcus Rainfield stood in the doorway, filling the entire frame.
00:22:31I had to tip my head back just to see his face.
00:22:34His muscles strained against his short sleeves.
00:22:37Between his sharp brows and the upward slant of his eyes,
00:22:41he looked downright terrifying.
00:22:43The scar on his temple only made him look more so.
00:22:47Jumarian couldn't stop staring at him.
00:22:51This was my first time dealing with a predatory werebeast,
00:22:54and my stomach was in knots.
00:22:56Was a werewolf like him really going to listen to me?
00:23:01Marcus must have picked up on my nerves.
00:23:03He leaned down, offering me his furry ears to pet,
00:23:06and spoke in a surprisingly so soft voice.
00:23:10Hi, Miss Pennyurton.
00:23:12I'm Marcus Rainhurth.
00:23:15The worker with him was Sheila,
00:23:17the same receptionist I'd met before.
00:23:20She gave me a warm smile.
00:23:22Don't worry.
00:23:24I watched Marcus grow up,
00:23:26and he's an absolute sweetheart.
00:23:29There is one issue, though.
00:23:31Because Werebeast Exchange is currently under under-renovation,
00:23:34it'll be about two weeks before we can take Jumarian back.
00:23:38Would it be alright if he stayed here in the meantime?
00:23:41We'll gladly cover his living expenses.
00:23:47While Sheila talked, Marcus's furry tail brushed against my ankle,
00:23:52wagging a mile a minute with excitement.
00:23:58I hesitated,
00:23:59not giving her a definite answer right away.
00:24:02Jumarian had been dead silent.
00:24:05But the second Marcus reached out to gently touch my pinky finger,
00:24:09Jumarian scoffed.
00:24:11Mutt?
00:24:12Marcus flinched.
00:24:17He instantly shrunk his massive frame down and pressed himself against my side.
00:24:22Miss Pennington, he's glaring at me, and I'm really scared.
00:24:29Just like that, my anxiety vanished.
00:24:32People always complained that werewolves were tough to handle,
00:24:36but Marcus was incredibly sweet.
00:24:39He was gentle and eager to please, which was exactly what I wanted.
00:24:47Sheila's smile dropped.
00:24:49Her face went totally flat as she held up her employee badge.
00:24:53Number 4561, Werewolf, at Jumarian Garrard, is that correct?
00:24:57Jumarian went pale.
00:24:59Yes.
00:25:02On behalf of Werebeast Exchange,
00:25:04I am officially notifying you that your owner has requested a replacement.
00:25:09We are highly disappointed in your failure to fill your duties.
00:25:16She tucked the badge away.
00:25:21We will be back to collect you in two weeks.
00:25:24Please have your things ready.
00:25:32Second, Sheila walked out the door.
00:25:34Jamariath lunged, yanking Marcus away from me.
00:25:38Mutt!
00:25:43What do you think you're doing?
00:25:44Is this just some act?
00:25:53Marcus hit the floor, scraping his hand hard against the corner of the table
00:25:57and leaving an angry red wint.
00:25:59He didn't try to fight back.
00:26:01He just scrambled to his feet and looked at me cautiously,
00:26:05completely miserable.
00:26:07My heart broke for him.
00:26:11I shoved Jumarian out of the way and rushed over.
00:26:15Jamarian slammed back against the wall, wincing.
00:26:19Are you okay?
00:26:22DEBORAH!
00:26:24I know exactly what you're doing!
00:26:26You're just using this mutt to manipulate me into a bond!
00:26:30Cancel the agreement right now and send him back!
00:26:33He pointed at the door.
00:26:36If you don't, I will never bond with you.
00:26:41I whipped around, totally out of patience.
00:26:44Jamian!
00:26:45Jamian!
00:26:45I'm only going to say this one last time!
00:26:50I don't want you anymore.
00:27:03Jamerican didn't say another word.
00:27:06He just turned and stormed out the door.
00:27:09Once things had settled,
00:27:11I carefully dabbed some medicine onto Marcus's scraped hand.
00:27:14He kept pulling away from my touch,
00:27:16turning his head so I couldn't see his face.
00:27:19A fresh wave of panic hit me.
00:27:22Do you regret coming here?
00:27:27Terrified he was going to turn out just like Jamariuk,
00:27:30I decided to lay all my cards on the table.
00:27:35Look, if you stay with me,
00:27:37you aren't going to get premium nutritional supplements.
00:27:40Since I'm classified as a lower tier human,
00:27:43my paychecks barely cover the basics.
00:27:46I look down at my hands.
00:27:51I work two jobs a day,
00:27:53I smell like sweat half the summer,
00:27:55and I know I'm pretty average looking.
00:28:00If you're ashamed to be seen,
00:28:01we tell me now,
00:28:02and I can send you back.
00:28:14I tried to sound casual as I spoke,
00:28:18subtly wiping my sweaty hands behind my back.
00:28:22Marcus finally looked at me,
00:28:24his grey eyes shining with tears.
00:28:27I'm so sorry.
00:28:29My stomach dropped.
00:28:31Was he going to reject me, too?
00:28:34The skin around his eyes was flushed raw.
00:28:38I'm sorry, I'm just so happy.
00:28:41I'm so glad to be staying with you
00:28:43that I couldn't hold my expression together.
00:28:46I thought I looked ugly when I cried,
00:28:48so I didn't want you to see.
00:28:51A loud sob broke from his chest.
00:28:53I was sure they were to ship me off to the fighting arena.
00:28:58Then they told me someone actually wanted me.
00:29:05He clutched my hand tighter.
00:29:09I held your picture at night,
00:29:11and I just couldn't believe it.
00:29:12I was terrified it was a dream.
00:29:14Mrs. Penningston,
00:29:16I think you're incredibly cute and beautiful.
00:29:23I'm not ashamed of you at all.
00:29:28I'm just so full of joy that I can't stop crying.
00:29:31I've never been this happy in my whole life.
00:29:34He was being so silly.
00:29:35The tears were already pouring down his cheeks.
00:29:39Sheila had mentioned that Marcus was quiet and timid
00:29:42simply because nobody wanted him.
00:29:49But listening to him chatter away now,
00:29:52I realized he'd just been keeping it all bottled up.
00:29:55A strange, restless warmth stirred in my chest.
00:29:59Could someone really be this happy just to be with me?
00:30:02It felt like a dream.
00:30:03I took his hand.
00:30:05His palm was damp with nervous sweat,
00:30:08but the solid heat of his skin told me it was real.
00:30:11You don't have to call me Mrs. Pennington, I told him.
00:30:13Just Deb is fine.
00:30:20When Jamarian got back,
00:30:22Gianna was with him.
00:30:23Jamarian marched straight into the bedroom and started packing,
00:30:26making as much noise as humanly possible.
00:30:31Gianna lingered in the entryway,
00:30:33looking completely disgusted.
00:30:37You've worked for years,
00:30:39and this tiny place is all you can afford, Deb?
00:30:42Maybe you just aren't working hard enough.
00:30:46Jamarian told me today you wanted a new werebeast.
00:30:49You really take him for granted.
00:30:52If I had a werebeast like him,
00:30:54I'd give up absolutely anything to provide for him.
00:30:58She smoothed her skirt smugly.
00:31:02I'd never kick him out.
00:31:06Inferior people have trash taste.
00:31:09Jamarian scoffed from the other room.
00:31:11She brings home a cheap mutt,
00:31:13and now the whole apartment stinks.
00:31:16I only had to put up with this for two more days,
00:31:18so getting into it with them was pointless.
00:31:23Keeping my head down,
00:31:24I went back to brushing Marcus's tail.
00:31:30The staff over at werebeast exchange
00:31:33hadn't bothered to groom him since no one wanted to buy him.
00:31:37I made sure to brush him out thoroughly,
00:31:40knowing how painful matted fur could be.
00:31:43Jamarian and Gianna kept lobbing insults back and forth,
00:31:47tearing me down.
00:31:53Actually, foxes are the ones that stink.
00:31:56Marcus chimed in out of nowhere.
00:31:59Jamaritan streamed out of the bedroom, livid.
00:32:03What did you just say?
00:32:06Marcus stepped in front of me.
00:32:08I said you're a stinking fox.
00:32:11You flirt with other people when you already have an owner.
00:32:13He bared his teeth.
00:32:15You have zero loyalty and zero morals.
00:32:20I stared at him, stunned.
00:32:22I can say it ten times if you want.
00:32:25For a guy who was supposed to be timid,
00:32:28he had a very sharp tongue.
00:32:30Was he defending me?
00:32:37The quiet warmth spread through my chest.
00:32:40When I looked up at him,
00:32:42he just blinked innocently and shrunk against my side.
00:32:45Gianna scoffed loudly.
00:32:47Since you obviously can't stand Jamanalik at Deborah,
00:32:50I assume you won't mind if he crashes at my place?
00:32:53I don't mind at all.
00:32:55I nodded.
00:32:57Jamarian dropped the pile of clothes he was holding.
00:33:01You've wanted to get rid of me this entire time, haven't you, Deborah?
00:33:05I looked down at his feet.
00:33:07He was standing on a $150 shirt,
00:33:09while I was sitting there in a cheap sweatshirt I'd bought at a $3 for $30 sale.
00:33:15I let out a sigh.
00:33:19Jamanian, aren't you the one who wanted to leave?
00:33:22His jaw clenched.
00:33:24Jamekin shot me a glares.
00:33:26Exactly.
00:33:27I want to leave you.
00:33:29It's not the other way around.
00:33:30I don't want to spend another minute in this dump.
00:33:36He turned away.
00:33:37Giana chimed in, quick to pascave him.
00:33:44Don't worry, Jamaritan.
00:33:46Come home with me.
00:33:49I'll give you everything you could ever want.
00:33:53But Jamarian didn't answer her.
00:33:55The only sound in the room was his tail thumping a steady rhythm against the floor.
00:34:08I smoothed out the new blankets.
00:34:11I told him.
00:34:16I'm sorry, as soon as Jamarian leaves, I'll clear out the other room for you.
00:34:20At least it's warm out right now, so the floor shouldn't be too bad.
00:34:24Plus, you're a werewolf, so I figured...
00:34:28I patted the mattress.
00:34:30I turned around and stopped short.
00:34:35Marcus was hovering by the door, wringing his hands.
00:34:39His ears were pinned back, drooping heavily.
00:34:42I asked,
00:34:43Hey, what's wrong?
00:34:44Do you not want the floor?
00:34:46You can take the bed, it's fine.
00:34:47I'll take the floor.
00:34:49Now his tail was tucked, too.
00:34:52Tears welled in his eyes.
00:34:53Did I do something wrong?
00:34:55I stared at him, completely lost.
00:34:57No, of course not.
00:34:59You've been totally fine.
00:35:02Werewolves were massive.
00:35:03And when Marcus dropped heavily to his knees,
00:35:06the tiny room suddenly felt suffocatingly small.
00:35:14Bathed in the warm yellow glow of the lamp,
00:35:16his rugged face just looked incredibly pitiful.
00:35:22After a long, tense pause, he took a few steps forward.
00:35:26He stopped short and looked back at me.
00:35:29I kept my eyes glued to the floor, pretending not to notice.
00:35:38Jamalion?
00:35:42Giana's smile vanished.
00:35:44When Jamalion finally moved, it was to ush Giana toward the door.
00:35:49I really don't want to be here.
00:35:52But where a beast exchange assigned me to Deborah's house,
00:35:56I shouldn't break the rules.
00:35:59You can find me at the hall once I'm officially listed for sale, Giana.
00:36:03He shut the front door firmly, cutting off her frustrated protests.
00:36:07Marcus watched Jamalion stand motionless by the door,
00:36:10then leaned in close.
00:36:12Let's go back to the bedroom, Deb.
00:36:15It's getting late.
00:36:16We should go to sleep.
00:36:18His warm brushed my skin, bringing a sudden hot flush flush to my face.
00:36:23It was a totally ordinary suggestion.
00:36:26But something about the way he said it made me acutely self-conscious.
00:36:31Jamalion whipped around.
00:36:33You two are sleeping in the same bed?
00:36:38Jamalion whipped around.
00:36:41Marcus drept an arm over my shoulders, pulling me flush against his chest.
00:36:46He gave Jamalion a wide-eyed, innocent look.
00:36:49Of course we are.
00:36:51Isn't it normal to sleep next to my owner?
00:36:55Not that it's any of your business anyway.
00:36:58You're just Deb's ex now.
00:37:02Marcus shuffled forward on his knees and wrapped his thick arms around my legs, tears spilling down his cheeks.
00:37:13Deb, whatever I messed up, I'll fix it.
00:37:15Please don't make me sleep alone.
00:37:18I swear, they taught me how to serve humans at whale beast exchange.
00:37:23Heat flooded my cheeks as it finally clicked.
00:37:26Was he crying because I was making him sleep in a separate bed?
00:37:31Without thinking, I reached down and wiped a tear away with my thumb.
00:37:38Marcus practically melted into my touch, nuzzling his rough cheek against my palm.
00:37:44Can I?
00:37:46He was a terrifying apex predator.
00:37:48But here he was, crying in completely genuine distress.
00:37:53We just met.
00:37:54I just...
00:37:56I didn't think you'd even want to.
00:38:00Jumanion definitely hadn't.
00:38:02He'd made it perfectly clear he'd rather drop dead than touch some inferior human.
00:38:08Marcus pressed hot, wet kisses into the center of my hand.
00:38:13I want to.
00:38:16Deb, I want to give you a child.
00:38:19I want to stay right by your side and protect you both for the rest of my life.
00:38:23I'm just an unwanted, inferior wolf.
00:38:25You're the only person who's actually wanted me.
00:38:27He pressed his forehead to my knees.
00:38:30I really like you.
00:38:31I'm nothing like that fox out there.
00:38:33I am entirely devoted to you.
00:38:35My knees gave out, and I sat down heavily on the edge of the mattress.
00:38:39Marcus's fever-hot hands settled onto my calves.
00:38:43Still crying, he pushed himself up.
00:38:47Resting one knee on the bed beside me.
00:38:51He pulled his shirt over his head.
00:38:54Marcus's chest was corded with firm, sculpt muscle.
00:39:03Marcus's chest was corded with firm, sculpt muscle.
00:39:05My brain just stopped working.
00:39:08Hanging onto my last shred of sanity, I slowly nodded.
00:39:24I woke up in a hazy fog to the sound of rain lashing against the window.
00:39:29I woke up in a hazy fog to the sound of rain lashing against the window.
00:39:29No wonder the room felt so suffocatingly hot and humid.
00:39:33I reached out to switch off the bedside lamp, but Marcus pulled me back.
00:39:37I rasped, my throat dry.
00:39:40Someone's knocking.
00:39:42There's someone out there.
00:39:46Stop.
00:39:52The wet kisses trailing down my neck paused, only to hover over my lips.
00:39:59Are you still thinking about him?
00:40:01You like him better, don't you?
00:40:02I felt totally trapped.
00:40:04I don't.
00:40:05I like you.
00:40:07I like you, okay?
00:40:09The second the words left my mouth, the incessant knocking stopped.
00:40:13Looking entirely satisfied, Marcus finally reached over and flicked off the light.
00:40:19The next morning, my entire body ached as I threw on my clothes.
00:40:24I muttered under my breath, Marcus had been way too huffed.
00:40:29Marcus came up behind me, pressing his heavy chest against my back.
00:40:36No.
00:40:37Deb, you smell so good.
00:40:39No, wait.
00:40:41You smell sweet.
00:40:43Can we sleep together again tonight?
00:40:46Knock it off.
00:40:47I can barely walk as it.
00:40:52The words died in my throat.
00:40:54Jameritan was out there.
00:40:56His eyes were totally dark with fury.
00:40:59Gripping the leather armrest of the chair so hard the material was buckling.
00:41:05The sheer intensity of his glare sent an icy chill straight down my spine.
00:41:10Jamerian ground out his face too.
00:41:13Debra, do you have absolutely no shame?
00:41:17Before I could even open my mouth, Marcus's hand clamped possessively onto my waist.
00:41:24His posture went still, instantly hostile.
00:41:29Fox, if you say one more insulting thing to Deb...
00:41:33He growled.
00:41:34I'll bite your neck and snap it.
00:41:36Jamerian's pupils blew out into razor-thin slits, his canons bared.
00:41:40Try it.
00:41:42I'd love to strangle you right now.
00:41:44The air in the tiny room grew thick, heavy with the suffocating tension of two werebeasts gearing up for a
00:41:49territorial bloodbath.
00:41:51I reached back, lacing my fingers firmly through Marcus's.
00:41:54There's no point in fighting with someone who doesn't matter.
00:41:58He's leaving soon anyway.
00:42:00Marcus's whole demeanor flipped on a dime.
00:42:03All that lethal aggression evaporated.
00:42:06He turned to me, his eyes wide and pitiful, his bottom lip poking out in a soft pout.
00:42:11He's so mean, Deb. He scared me.
00:42:18I rubbed Marcus's ears. They were incredibly soft.
00:42:22That's just how he is. Just ignore him.
00:42:25I told him.
00:42:30Come on.
00:42:34Let's go buy you some pajamas.
00:42:36The stiff tension finally drained from Jamerican's humped shoulders, leaving him swaying slightly on his feet.
00:42:43Then, he moved, planting himself squarely in front of the door.
00:42:53He grabbed my arm.
00:42:55At Debra, don't choose him.
00:42:56I thought you liked me.
00:42:58Whatever he can do for you, I can do too.
00:43:00Just send him back.
00:43:02Send him back right now, and I swear I'll pretend none of this ever happened.
00:43:05Behind me, I felt Marcus instantly tense up.
00:43:08I stayed quiet for a moment, letting the silence hang but changing the subject.
00:43:13You know, I grew up in an orphanage.
00:43:18Jamerian frowned, clearly thrown off.
00:43:22So?
00:43:23Because of that, I said, letting my mind drift back.
00:43:27I'm really good at reading people.
00:43:29When you first got here, I could tell you were genuinely happy.
00:43:32But eventually, I watched your mood sour into irritation and then disgust.
00:43:36I took a breath.
00:43:39I tried so hard to please you.
00:43:44I put in so much effort, but you just continually resented me.
00:43:48You thought I was beneath you, that I was unworthy of you, and those feelings were real.
00:43:54That's exactly why I decided to transfer answer your ownership.
00:43:59I expected you to be happy and relieved right now.
00:44:03Instead, you're acting jealous and angry.
00:44:06Want to tell me why that is, Jamerian?
00:44:09I looked him dead in the eye.
00:44:12Outside, clouds swallowed the sun, plunging the room into dim gray.
00:44:17His fingertips had turned a pale, sickly blue, probably from the chill in the air.
00:44:23For a long time, he didn't say a word.
00:44:28Deciding this was a waste of time, I grabbed Marcus's hand and moved to brush past him.
00:44:34But Jamerian caught my free hand.
00:44:37I turned back.
00:44:38For the first time since I'd known him, his perfectly composed mask cracked.
00:44:43It revealed raw, genuine distress.
00:44:46He finally whispered.
00:44:49Debra, if I tell you right now that I really like you, is it too late?
00:44:58The whole situation was completely absurd.
00:45:02I was so stunned it took me a second to process what was happening.
00:45:07By the time I snapped back to reality, Marcus was already beating the living hell out of him.
00:45:14Stop!
00:45:16I grabbed Marcus, hauling him back.
00:45:18Stop hitting him!
00:45:20If he dies, you're going to prison!
00:45:22You piece of trash!
00:45:26You piece of trash.
00:45:28Marcus stumbled back, his chest heaving, his knuckles coated in blood.
00:45:38You have no right to confess your feelings to someone else's owner!
00:45:42You're trying to steal her!
00:45:44I'll beat you into the ground every time I see you!
00:45:48Jameritan struggled to prop himself up on his elbows, wiping his bleeding mouth with the back of his hand.
00:45:57Technically, I was here first.
00:46:00You're the one interfering in our relationship.
00:46:04Marcus then found a furious yell and kicked him hard in the ribs.
00:46:11Jam lift went completely still.
00:46:20Panic spiked in my chest, and I hurried over to check on him.
00:46:25Jamelion grinned his teeth through the pain, gazing up at me with obvious, desperate hope.
00:46:32You still care about me, don't you?
00:46:37Seeing that his injuries weren't life-threatening, I let it out a heavy breath of relief.
00:46:42I was just worried that if you died, it would ruin Marcus's life.
00:46:48I don't need a hospital.
00:46:52Deb, you heard me, right?
00:46:55I really like you.
00:46:57Jamelion grabbed my wrist, his voice breaking as he pleaded.
00:47:02You said you wanted to form a bond with me.
00:47:07You wanted us to pick out matching rings.
00:47:10He tried to sit up.
00:47:13Can we go do that right now?
00:47:16I said, calmly prying his fingers off my wrist.
00:47:22Jamelion,
00:47:24Giana already promised she's going to buy you,
00:47:26so you aren't going to be sent back to work in the Red Light District.
00:47:33You don't have to force yourself to be with me just because you're scared.
00:47:36Stop pretending to like me.
00:47:45No, no.
00:47:47Jamelion insisted, shrinking back into a submissive posture.
00:47:52I really do like you.
00:47:55I'm not pretending, I swear.
00:47:57He reached for my hand.
00:47:59I've liked you since the very first day we met.
00:48:02You're kind, and you're hard-working.
00:48:06It's impossible for me not to have feelings for you.
00:48:10As I listened to his desperate, broken assurances, my first and only reaction was pure amusement.
00:48:17How on earth could his past behavior pass for affection?
00:48:20I tilted my head, genuinely curious.
00:48:24So, your way of showing affection is calling me disgusting and dirty?
00:48:29Telling me to get out?
00:48:31Causing me physical and emotional pain?
00:48:34And then having the nerve to say I brought it all on myself?
00:48:36All the remaining color completely drained with Jameritan's face as I questioned him.
00:48:42If that's the case, Jamerian, then I don't want your affection.
00:48:46Besides, I honestly don't believe you actually like me at all.
00:48:50Stop lying to yourself.
00:48:52Certain he wasn't going to die from his injuries, I stood up.
00:48:57I grabbed Marcus's hand and let him out the front door.
00:49:01I took Marcus straight to the hospital.
00:49:04We ended up with the same nurse as last time, and she eyed him with obvious disgust.
00:49:11Is this your werebeast?
00:49:13The one who let you get banged up three times last month without ever showing his face,
00:49:17but makes you drag him in the second he's the one injured?
00:49:21I shifted uncomfortably, quick to clear the air.
00:49:24No, this is my new werebeast.
00:49:26The nurse flushed and immediately apologized to him.
00:49:29I'm so sorry.
00:49:31When my blood sugar dropped last last time, Deb broke my fall so I wouldn't get hurt.
00:49:36She's a genuinely good person.
00:49:38I thought you were the werebeast mistreating her.
00:49:42Marcus looked right at me, his expression unreadable.
00:49:49Deb, he said, his voice quiet.
00:49:53I am so sorry for what you went through.
00:49:56I'd always been good at just taking what life handed me.
00:50:00Whenever Jamardial treated me like garbage, I can convince myself I simply wasn't good enough for him, bending over backward
00:50:07to try and please him.
00:50:08It hurt, sure, but I used his anger as fuel to push myself and grow stronger.
00:50:14I honestly thought I was numb to it all by now.
00:50:17The contempt from strangers, the abuse from the people closest to me.
00:50:22But then Marcus said he felt sorry for me.
00:50:24He actually cared about my injuries and all the hard work I'd put in.
00:50:28He had told me he liked me more than anyone else.
00:50:31He truly saw me for who I was.
00:50:34Out of nowhere, a massive wave of grief washed over me, and the tears just started falling.
00:50:41I looked up, gently pushing his face so he was looking straight ahead.
00:50:49Just focus on getting patched up.
00:50:52It hit me then that bad situation really do get better eventually.
00:50:57I didn't have any family, and I'd wound up with Jamarian, a guy who never loved me.
00:51:02But all of that hell was just something I had to survive before finally meeting Marcus.
00:51:09Over the next few weeks, Marcus and I acted like Jamarian didn't even exist.
00:51:13Marcus went out and found a job.
00:51:15I'm an able-bodied man.
00:51:17I can't let you shoulder the burden providing for us all on your own.
00:51:21If we both work, our living situation will get better.
00:51:24That was a total revelation to me.
00:51:27Two people could actually share the heavy lifting of life together.
00:51:32Meanwhile, Jamarian stubbornly camped out on the couch day in and day out, just watching us come and go.
00:51:39The night before we moved out, he cornered me by the apartment gate.
00:51:44I wait at home for you every single day, but you never even look at me.
00:51:50Deb, I know I messed up.
00:51:53Everyone makes mistakes.
00:51:55Why can't you forgive me just this once?
00:51:57I shook my head.
00:52:00I don't blame you.
00:52:01I get it.
00:52:02You're an elite werebeast, and I'm a lower-class human.
00:52:06Buying your contract was pure luck on my part.
00:52:10I completely understand why you were so miserable with me and the life we had.
00:52:17A spark of hope lit up his eyes.
00:52:23So you forgive me?
00:52:26I swear I'll treat you right this time.
00:52:29Tomorrow, we can go together and return that low-grade mutt.
00:52:32I stepped back.
00:52:33No.
00:52:35Marcus is staying.
00:52:36You're just confusing your feelings because you're terrified of being sent to the Red Light District.
00:52:42Once the contract exchange goes through, your life will go back to normal.
00:52:47No!
00:52:48No!
00:52:49I'm not confused!
00:52:51Deb, how can I make you believe me?
00:52:55I really do like you.
00:52:59Watching him stand there crying and begging, I remembered how desperately I used to crave his love.
00:53:05Seeing it from the outside now, I realized just how pathetic that behavior looked.
00:53:11No wonder Jemarion had always found me so repulsive.
00:53:16Jemarion sank to the pavement, burying his face in his hands.
00:53:22Jemarion's words caught between sobs.
00:53:25I realized a long time ago that I actually had feelings for you, but I just couldn't accept that you
00:53:32were a lower-class human.
00:53:35My pride made me lash out and say things I didn't mean.
00:53:44I thought that, by treating you terribly, I was proving I hadn't stooped to your level by being with you.
00:53:53He wiped his face.
00:53:56I got a sick sense of satisfaction out of insulting you and watching you bend over backward to prove your
00:54:02love.
00:54:03It gave me the upper hand in our relationship and made me feel like the admired, elite were-beef I
00:54:09was supposed to be.
00:54:11But I forgot how flawed and unwanted I actually am.
00:54:15Your love was the only thing that ever gave me value.
00:54:18Tears slipped through his fingers, leaving small, dark spots on the concrete.
00:54:26I finally understood his twisted logic.
00:54:29I finally understood his twisted logic.
00:54:33He simply couldn't stomach the fact that he liked a lower-class human.
00:54:38He'd used my blind devotion to convince himself he was merely re-putting up with me.
00:54:43Staring down at him, my stomach lurched.
00:54:46I physically gag, overwhelmed by pure disgust.
00:54:49Jemarion panicked, reaching out to soothe me.
00:54:52What's wrong?
00:54:53He asked.
00:54:54I wiped my mouth and shoved his hand away.
00:54:57Jamelion, we're done.
00:55:01Sheila arrived with a radiant smile.
00:55:03Deb, Marcus is really obedient, isn't he?
00:55:07Marcus hurried to speak.
00:55:09Of course I'm obedient. Right, Deb?
00:55:11I couldn't help but laugh.
00:55:13Yeah, most of the time.
00:55:16Marcus muttered,
00:55:17Nonsense.
00:55:18I've been obedient all the time.
00:55:21Seeing the tall, brew-wear-be-stack like this was inexplicably adorable.
00:55:27Sheila asked me to sign the confirmation agreement.
00:55:30As I picked up the pen, I suddenly remembered the day I bought Jemarion.
00:55:34We sat together, his nose tip was red, tears and joy mingled together.
00:55:40Because he was so cute, I couldn't help but glance at him a few times.
00:55:44He looked a bit flustered.
00:55:47Sorry, I'll pay more attention to my appearance in the Empire.
00:55:51I couldn't help but laugh.
00:55:53You look pretty good right now.
00:55:56Jemarion laughed along with me.
00:55:59What's good about it?
00:56:00That was one of the rare times I saw him smile.
00:56:03I could recall the curve of his smiling lips, with the left canine tooth slightly longer.
00:56:10I shook my head, trying to shake off the memory of Jemarion.
00:56:15No matter what, he was no longer that person.
00:56:20Jemarion lay in the room, staring blankly at the ceiling.
00:56:24Sheila finished reading the announcement.
00:56:27Jemarion gave a self-advocating smile.
00:56:33I used to think this bed was really uncomfortable.
00:56:36Only today did I realize it's actually quite comfortable.
00:56:40He sat up and followed at Sheila outside.
00:56:43He walked very slowly, but until he left, neither Marcus nor I looked at him again.
00:56:52Holding scissors, I was eager to try them on Marcus.
00:56:56I watched a video where the owner trimmed their werebeast ear fur into perfect round shapes.
00:57:01It looked so pretty.
00:57:04Let me try.
00:57:05But let's agree first.
00:57:07If I mess it up, you can't get mad.
00:57:11Marcus obediently lowered his head, his ears soft like two clouds.
00:57:15As long as you cut it, I like it all.
00:57:20The front door closed.
00:57:22Jemanon had left.
00:57:25A long time later, I heard from Aunt Sheila that Jemarion had not bought Jemarion.
00:57:31She knew Jemarion couldn't have children, and she threw a huge tantra at the werebeast exchange.
00:57:38She said Jemarion wasted her time.
00:57:41He was clearly defective, yet acted so arrogant.
00:57:45I hadn't expected Guyana to be unaware of Jemarion's problem.
00:57:49So what about Jemeritan?
00:57:51Was he sold to the Red Light District?
00:57:53He got sick. Depression.
00:57:55He couldn't even talk to people.
00:57:57The manager could only apply to scrape him.
00:58:00She paused on the phone.
00:58:02Now he works at an orphanage.
00:58:03Being around those children, he actually feels calmer.
00:58:08After hanging up the phone, I stood there in a daze for quite a while.
00:58:12Marcus hugged me from behind.
00:58:15Are you worried about him?
00:58:16If you're really worried, we could buy him back too.
00:58:19I don't mind.
00:58:20He said he didn't mind, but his hands were almost squeezing my waist in half.
00:58:27I turned around and pinched his face.
00:58:30When will you learn not to say one thing and mean another?
00:58:39Marcus was good in every way, but he was always so careful and eager to please me.
00:58:45Whatever I asked, he was willing.
00:58:48I was really afraid that one day, if I did something bad, he would clean up after me.
00:58:54I hoped he could be more at ease and express his true feelings.
00:58:58I pinched him hard, wanted Marcus to learn to refuse my unreasonable actions.
00:59:04But even when his cheeks turned bright red, he didn't react.
00:59:07Instead, his eyes shone as he looked at me.
00:59:11I felt defeated.
00:59:13Why don't you say it hurts?
00:59:16You can refuse me, you know?
00:59:18Marcus shook his head.
00:59:19You only pinch me. You don't pinch anyone else.
00:59:22That means you like me.
00:59:28You like me, I'm happy. I don't feel pain.
00:59:33I felt amused and a little angry.
00:59:36You really are. You really are.
00:59:43I kissed his swollen red face.
00:59:46You're just too adorable.
00:59:48After the kiss, I suddenly noticed the air in the room had become sticky.
00:59:53Mark Horses was clearly restless, his tail wagging non-stop.
00:59:57I wanted to run, but he had already grabbed my ankle.
01:00:01Our child will be even cuter than me.
01:00:04Do you want to try?
01:00:07I don't want to.
01:00:09It was still Dale time.
01:00:11Marcus tilted his head and think for a minute, but still pulled me back.
01:00:16He was very serious.
01:00:18You said I should learn to refuse you.
01:00:20Then I refuse.
01:00:22You don't want to.
01:00:26Is that what I meant? Stop kissing me!
01:00:30Fortunately, I was someone who could reconcile with myself.
01:00:33Maybe this counted as Marcus's first step toward learning how to love normally.
01:00:39Marcus stood in the kitchen, ears permed up, tail swaying gently.
01:00:45Marcus held up a worn photo of me, pressing it to his chest.
01:00:49Sheila gave me this before I came.
01:00:52I held it every night at the arena.
01:00:54I was so scared no one would ever want me.
01:00:59He set the photo down carefully on the shelf, right where he could see it every morning.
01:01:06Then his ears flattened.
01:01:10Jumanian came back again today.
01:01:12He blocked me at the neighborhood entrance when I was five minutes late from work.
01:01:17Marcus's jaw tightened.
01:01:20I don't like him near you, Deb.
01:01:22I really don't.
01:01:28He pulled me close, resting his chin on top of my head.
01:01:32I know he's leaving soon.
01:01:33But until he does, I want you to stay safe.
01:01:38Marcus came home one afternoon, a folded paper in his hand and tears streaming down his face.
01:01:44Deb, I formed a bond with you.
01:01:48It's certified and official.
01:01:50He held up the bond certificate.
01:01:52His hand was trembling.
01:01:54I'm so happy.
01:01:56I looked at the paper, then at his tear-streaked face.
01:02:01Marcus, you're crying again.
01:02:05I can't help it.
01:02:07He dropped to his knees, wrapping his arms around my waist.
01:02:10I'm just so happy.
01:02:13A few months later, Marcus held a tiny bundle in his massive arms, tears rolling down his cheeks again.
01:02:22It's a daughter.
01:02:24She looks just like you, Deb.
01:02:28I touched the baby's small face.
01:02:33Stop crying, Marcus.
01:02:35It's bad for your eyes.
01:02:38He shook his head, pressing his forehead against mine.
01:02:44I can't help it.
01:02:46I'm so happy.
01:02:48I wish you all happiness, too.
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