Max

Max let out a shaky breath, his voice carrying a rare sense of defeat.

"I know that..." he muttered.

The woman sighed, leaning back in her chair. "Max, let go of your foolishness. You've done more than enough for that human. He should be grateful."

Her voice softened just a little. "Even if he found out what you did to him, I doubt he'd hate you. Don't worry." She glanced at Max, who stood on the table with his tiny hands clenched into fists.

Max scoffed, shaking his head. "I know... I know he wouldn't hate me." His voice trembled, frustration mixing with something deeper. "Even if he found out I was raising him like some livestock manipulating him, using him, only to discard him when his purpose was fulfilled..."

He exhaled, his small shoulders slumping. "Lucian is a fool... but he's not like normal humans." His voice softened. "He's special. He's kind. And he's... innocent."