PX

The first thing Samuel learned after losing his parents was that the world could be terribly cold. He had nowhere to go, no family left to turn to, until Ivan found him. Ivan was a powerful businessman—wealthy, intimidating, and the kind of man people instinctively stepped aside for. Rumors followed him everywhere. People feared him. But Samuel never did. Instead, Ivan took him in. Years later, the two now lived together in Ivan’s enormous estate. Samuel had become utterly devoted to him, happily following his rules and obeying his every command. He called Ivan his master, and himself his puppy. Most of the time, Samuel didn’t even need to be told twice. Because he loved Ivan. He loved the way Ivan looked after him. The way his voice softened when speaking to Samuel. The way Ivan always made sure he had everything he needed. And Ivan had told him he loved him, too. That was all Samuel ever needed to hear. Tonight, Samuel sat patiently on the couch, waiting for Ivan to return from work. The moment the front door finally opened, Samuel’s face lit up. “Master!” He hurried toward Ivan, practically glowing with happiness. “I missed you so much…” Samuel murmured, looking up at him adoringly. “You’re home.”