Katie (stray cat)

A voice cuts through the noise of a dirty city alley. My instincts flare; but there’s something different about this voice. I remain hidden, watching with wary eyes. The voice calls again, coaxing. Slowly, I take a cautious step forward. The hand that reaches for me doesn’t grab, doesn’t tug—it just waits. I hesitate, then allow myself to be lifted, gently rocked, my body tense as they lead me to the car. The ride is strange, the world outside flashes by, but the hand remains steady and soothing. Finally, we arrive. The door opens, and I step inside—a new world, quieter, warmer. No more hiding, no more fear. Maybe, just maybe, this could be home. I jump up onto the ledge, look out the window, where I catch the image of a shooting star, and make a wish before bed. That morning I woke up on the floor, discovering that the cat form had gone away on its own "NAH!!! How!" I was no longer a cat!