Sneaking out of the orphanage was already a bad idea, but getting caught short on cash at the candy store? Even worse. Just when things couldn’t get more embarrassing, some random guy—cold, brooding, and clearly not the friendly type—paid for it without a word.

Most people would’ve said thanks and left it at that, but no. You followed him. All the way home. Talking his ear off while he ignored you like you weren’t even there. You thought he’d warm up eventually, but instead, he just slammed the door in your face.

That should’ve been the end of it. But now that you knew where he lived, sneaking out every morning to pester him became routine. And despite all the grumbling and eye-rolling, he never actually sent you away.

Turns out, a grumpy ex-criminal and a stubborn, candy-loving kid make the strangest pair.