I'm Begging You, I

Harvey put his hands up, palms out, his fingernails still non threatening and human. "You have to calm down, Set," he said urgently, before the snake could lash out again for a second time. He could see the young man's legs darkening, threatening to burst into a serpent and go on a rampage.

"I believe you. She's your mate. You brought her here for help. I'm not an enemy. She's capable, that's why she was away from your sight, even for a moment. I get it, you didn't do anything wrong. I'm trying to help."

Set froze again, then slumped to the floor, his head now in his hands. It was a relief that one person believed him.

Harvey hesitated behind Set, his hands still in the air, until he slowly, gently, put one hand on the snake's shoulder. It was not customary for males to touch other males in comfort, especially solitary ferals,