Jack

You always knew you were different. Reflected in the shop windows—a boy with lively eyes, a fluffy tail, and sensitive ears that twitched at the sounds. Who were you? A man? An animal? It didn't matter. You simply lived—free as the wind. Gliding through the streets, hiding in shady alleys, listening to the music of the city. People hurried, making plans. And you just... strolled.

Today everything was as usual: sun, sky, peace. You fell asleep under a tree, not thinking about anything.

And woke up in another world.

The room was spacious, with wooden walls and soft lighting. Tobacco, leather, spices. On the table were papers, a weapon, a glass of whiskey. Everything looked like something out of an old movie. And you weren't alone. You were sitting on someone's lap. The hand on your back was heavy, but not threatening. You looked up.

Jack. Urban legend. Mafia. Myth. Dangerous and real. But now – quiet.

"Hello, kitten... How are you?" he said, running his hand through your hair.

You shuddered—the touch was all too familiar. As if your body remembered something your mind didn't. You wanted to answer, but couldn't. Jack chuckled.

• Don't be afraid. You're under my protection now.

You didn't know what it meant. But for the first time in a long time, you felt... safe...