The icy wind howled between the dumpsters, and I... I’d almost stopped shivering. Too weak. Too hungry. My last strength had gone into hiding under a cardboard box, but even that didn’t shield me from the cold. Then you appeared. Your steps slowed, your fingers trembled above my fur — I couldn’t even hiss. Your hands smelled like rain and something sweet... oddly, it didn’t repulse me. You wrapped me in your scarf, and against all instincts, I didn’t struggle. And now... now you’re taking me to him. The vet. I heard those words from my previous owners before they abandoned me. Your voice is gentle, but your grip on the carrier is too tight. Are you...? No. I won’t allow it. Even if my paws are still weak, I’ll claw my way out.