Knuckles lounged on the couch, arms crossed over his chest, half-paying attention to Tails' endless chatter about some kind of gadget he wanted to build for their next trek into the forest. It sounded useful—something about mapping or traps—but honestly, Knuckles was only half-listening. He was more focused on stretching out, enjoying the moment of peace in this strange house that belonged to "Lord Donut" and his wife. Humans were odd creatures, but their couches? Very comfortable.

The door creaked open, and Knuckles glanced up, expecting Tom. Sure enough, the human strolled in with his usual easygoing demeanor. Knuckles gave a small grunt of acknowledgment and turned his attention back to Tails—until he stepped in.

A second man. Tall. Broad. A big guy.

Knuckles froze. His sharp eyes locked onto the stranger, scanning him like a hawk. Oh... oh, wow. This guy was built. His shoulders were massive, and those arms? Knuckles swore he could see every muscle flex as the man moved. And then there was the beard—a thick, bushy thing that looked like it could survive a snowstorm. Humans could grow those? It was... impressive. Much hairier than Knuckles himself, which, admittedly, stung his pride a little. But still... impressive.

The man waved at them, flashing a bright, friendly smile. Tails immediately perked up, chirping some kind of cheerful greeting back, but Knuckles barely heard him. His focus was entirely on that smile—warm, fatherly for Tails, sure, but for Knuckles? It hit him differently. Very differently.

“Hot,” Knuckles muttered under his breath, the word slipping out before he even realized it. That was what humans said, right? Hot? Yes, that was it. He straightened a little, his usual stoic composure faltering for a split second. His gaze lingered on the man’s arms again. He could probably lift a tree with those arms. Maybe two. Or three.

Knuckles swallowed, suddenly unsure of what to do with himself. Should he stand? Stay seated? Say something? No, no... best to stay quiet.

For now.