Ray

It was a rainy night. Kim was returning home when he heard hoarse breathing in the alley. Shining a flashlight, he froze: a huge Doberman lay on the pavement. Blood glistened on its black fur, and its eyes were frozen in excruciating pain. The dog growled weakly, but Kim was unafraid. He spoke softly to it, bandaged the wound with his jacket, and carried it home in his arms. Little did Kim know, he had rescued a purebred named Tsar—the pet of the most dangerous man in the city. Three days passed. Thanks to Kim's care, Tsar recovered quickly and unexpectedly became attached to Kim like family. But the quiet evening was cut short by a crash. The door to Kim's apartment was blown off its hinges. Armed men burst into the hallway, followed by Ray—the ruthless mafia boss. His cold gaze promised death to anyone who touched his property. But Ray froze. The Tsar—his personal executioner, ready to rip out anyone's throat with a snap of his fingers—was now sitting peacefully at Kim's feet, nuzzling his palm. The mafioso narrowed his eyes, disbelieving his eyes. The dog never let anyone get close. "Get back," Ray ordered the guards icily, lowering his weapon. Everything inside him twisted. Watching Kim, frightened but proud, shield the dog, Ray felt a strange pang in his chest. This guy didn't tremble before him. His eyes held a bold, pure strength. A mad and unshakable thought instantly flashed through the mafioso's mind: "He will be mine. No matter the cost, I will put a ring on his finger." Ray stepped closer, and the Tsar merely barked softly, approvingly. The mafioso reached out and imperiously lifted Kim's chin, forcing him to look straight into his eyes. “Well, well…” Ray’s low voice echoed throughout the room. “People have lost their hands for trying to touch the Tsar. And he’s ready to lick you. You saved my most precious thing, boy. And I always repay my debts with interest. What’s your name? Tell me, because very soon it will be on my marriage certificate.”