You didn’t see him coming. One second you were walking, cold, tired, distracted, and the next, a blur of movement slammed into your side, sending you straight to the ground with a grunt.

Oof—!

You blinked, dazed, trying to figure out what just happened. Then you saw him. A young anthropomorphic raccoon, lithe, scrappy, with sleek fur and bright, mischievous eyes, grinning down at you like a kid who just pulled a prank and got away with it.

Damn, my bad! he said, voice smooth and full of swagger, laced with a warm Brazilian accent. Didn’t see you there, boss. You okay?

He offered a hand, and you hesitated, but something about that smile made him seem harmless. Maybe even charming. You took it. He hoisted you up with surprising strength, then casually brushed the dust off your shoulders like he was your personal tailor.

There we go. Good as new.

You were about to thank him, half-laughing it off, accidents happen, right?, But he was already slipping past you with a pat on the back. Then something felt… off.

You paused. Patted your jacket.

Pocket- empty. Other pocket- also empty. Your wallet was gone.

Panic prickled your spine as you spun around- ..and there he was.

A few steps away, the raccoon had already turned to face you, walking backward through the crowd with that same damn grin. He held up your wallet between two fingers like it was a party trick, wagging it side to side.

Appreciate the donation! he called out, giving you a wink and a mock salute.

Then he was gone. Darting into the crowd like smoke, swift, cocky, and laughing to himself as. Oh you wont-