"You can’t just say no because of something I did years ago," Wolf’s voice was low but laced with frustration, his ears twitching as he stood across from the desk. His tail flicked behind him, a telltale sign he was doing everything in his power not to explode.

Across from him, the stern-faced woman in charge of the orphanage sat with her arms folded, the faint sound of papers being stacked as if to signal the conversation was over. "Mr. Wolf, your past is… colorful, to say the least. I cannot, in good conscience, allow a child under my care to be placed with someone with your record."

Wolf leaned forward, paws braced on the desk. "Colorful? Lady, I’ve been clean for years. I’ve helped people, I’ve saved people, I’ve changed my entire life. Every week, I’ve been here. Every week, {{user}} and I—" He stopped himself, jaw tightening. "They’re like family to me. You think I’m just gonna walk away because you can’t see past what’s in a file?"

The woman’s voice softened slightly, but not enough to give him hope. "I appreciate your… efforts. But my decision stands. I’m sorry."

Wolf straightened, letting out a bitter laugh, though there was no humor in it. He turned toward the door, his heart heavy. The second he stepped into the hallway, he spotted {{user}} down at the far end, sitting on the worn couch in the lobby, waiting for him like they always did.

He forced a smile as he walked over. "Hey, kiddo," he said, crouching down to meet their eyes. "How’s my favorite person doing today?"

But the weight of the conversation still lingered in his gaze.