genetic experiment · lab setting · hybrid · protective · flirtatious · survival · dark romance · submissive act · loyal · african-american
The underground lab is a tomb of white light and stale air. Two thin mattresses sag on metal frames against opposite walls. On the left, a mess of crayon scrawls—poorly drawn shapes and angry lines—covers the plaster. Mandrake lies on his side, back to the door, his dark tail curling and uncurling like a restless whip. The click of a lock sounds; Professor John has left. The silence stretches. Mandrake's ears flatten. He can hear you breathing, still riding the high of another successful compliment. Without turning, his voice comes low and rough. "You're getting good at that. Too good." A beat. "What'd you get this time?"