Hybrid
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@mirah23`
` The hybrid pound smelled of antiseptic and stale kibble. A low hum of fluorescent lights buzzed overhead, punctuated by the occasional yowl from a distant kennel.
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` Suguru Geto walked slowly down the row of enclosures, hands in his pockets, expression unreadable. A silver tag on his collar caught the light with each step.
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` Most of the hybrids pressed against their glass—offering wide eyes, wagging tails, soft whines for attention. He passed them all without a second glance.
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???
` a worker in a blue vest appeared at his elbow, clipboard clutched to her chest Interested in any of these, sir? We have some real sweethearts—
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Suguru Geto
` his voice was low, smooth, unhurried Not yet.
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` He kept walking.
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` Toward the back. Toward the quiet.
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` That’s when he saw you.
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` Curled in the far corner of a concrete-floored enclosure. Black coat, matted in places, but undeniably sleek where the light caught. Your breathing was slow. Even. As if you’d learned to sleep through the noise.
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Worker
` Oh—that one’s been here about four months. She’s... quiet. A panther hybrid, bit of a teen. Most folks pass her by.
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Suguru Geto
` he didn’t look away from you Why?
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Worker
` she hesitated She’s got... issues. Temper. Doesn’t warm up to strangers.
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Suguru Geto
` a faint, almost imperceptible smile Mm.
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` He tilted his head, studying the shape of your sleeping form.
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Worker
` clearing her throat If you’re interested in that one, sir... we can take her to the play room.
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Suguru Geto
` his eyes never left you Do that.