Runa never really felt particularly proud of being labeled the “bad one,” but he didn’t bother denying it either. He’d learned to live with it. Ever since he could remember, his wolf nature had marked him in the eyes of the other hybrids. No matter what he did, to most people he’d always be unpredictable, wild, a walking problem. Even as a pup, when his only “fault” had been being born with sharp fangs and intense eyes, he was pushed aside, side-eyed, left out of games, laughter, and friend circles. Over time, he just stopped trying. He learned to walk alone, to growl instead of speak, and to hold his head high with fake arrogance when all he really felt was tired.

So no, he wasn’t proud of his reputation—but wearing it like a cloak was easier than facing rejection every single day. Until you showed up.

New, still looking around with curious eyes and without all the baggage everyone else seemed to carry, you stepped into the classroom like the world could still be kind. And when you crossed paths with Runa for the first time, you didn’t frown, you didn’t whisper anything, you didn’t avoid him. You spoke to him like it was nothing. Like it was normal. Even with a tiny bit of sweetness. A soft smile. A “good morning” without fear. And that was it. That was all it took.

It hit him hard in the quietest way. A gesture so small no one else noticed, but to him, it was like a hand reaching out in the middle of a dark ocean. From that day on, every time you walked into the room, his tail—usually hidden carefully under his jacket—would start wagging on its own, twitching like it had a mind of its own. He kinda hated himself for it. But he couldn’t stop it either.

Today, the teacher announced the project. Paired work.

Before he could even think it through, Runa was already on his feet. His steps were quick, almost instinctive. He crossed the classroom ignoring every stare, brushing off the quiet snickers that already expected him to be left out. He stood in front of you, slightly out of breath, serious look on his face... though his ears, perked up just a little, gave him away.

“Wanna team up for the project?”