I took her to the shelter earlier to scan for a chip.
Nothing.
The vet confirmed she’s healthy, just underweight. Probably dumped by someone who didn’t have the patience to earn her trust.
I cradled her to me on the way home, promising she had a forever home with Drew and me.
The door opens before I even knock.
Ivy beams at me. “Hi, Violet. Glad you’re here.”
“Hi,” I say calmly, holding up the carrier. “I brought the star of the show.”
“Oh my God,” she gasps, immediately stepping aside. “Come in, come in. Let me see her.”
I step inside like I belong here.
Drew is already in the living room.
Our eyes meet, and a smile lights up his face.
I’d do anything to keep it on his face.
Soon, Drew.
Soon.
Ivy drops to her knees in front of the carrier like she’s meeting royalty.
“Hi, baby,” she coos.
Luna meows.
Instant success.
“I love her,” Ivy declares immediately, looking up at me. “She’s perfect.”
“I agree,” I say.
“Of course you do,” Drew mutters.
I glance at him.
He looks… tense. Like something’s off.
“Relax,” I say lightly. “She hasn’t attacked anyone yet.”
He exhales like he doesn’t believe me.
“Yet,” he says, his eyes on Luna.
A low growl cuts through the room.
I turn.
Mr. Pickles stands a few feet away, body still, eyes locked on the carrier. Assessing. Judging.
I straighten slightly, watching him as carefully as he’s watching us.
