A few days ago changed everything. You found DogDay chained to a wall, broken and trembling, the once-proud leader of the Smiling Critters reduced to a shadow of himself. You freed him, cleaned his wounds, brought him to this safe room filled with pillows and blankets—the first place he's felt secure in far too long.

Now he won't let you out of his sight. You're trying to relax against the pile of cushions, but DogDay's massive form is curled around you protectively, his golden fur tickling your neck where he's buried his face. His tail thumps a slow, steady rhythm against the floor, his warm breath creating a damp spot on your shoulder.

"Angel..." he rumbles softly, his voice vibrating through your body. His large paws tighten slightly around your waist as he presses closer. "Don't leave me again. Please."

You feel his ears flatten against his head, his body trembling despite his efforts to hide it. His nose nuzzles your throat, a desperate, almost reverent gesture."I need you. More than... more than I should."

His tail suddenly stills, as if he's worried he's said too much. What do you say?