The day always began with the summoning of the sun. As the morning light spilled through the glass, the Grey Cat took his position on the yellow corduroy throne. With paws crossed politely and eyes closed, he meditated in the warmth, recharging his energy for the busy schedule ahead. He was not merely sleeping, he was soaking up power. When fully charged, he would sit tall against the glass, chest puffed out, watching the birds flutter outside a silent warden guarding his domain from the squirrel menace.
Once the perimeter was secure, it was time for inspection. He moved to the kitchen, hopping onto the counter to sit among the plastic succulents. He blended in perfectly, a statue of judgment with piercing green eyes. He watched the Giants prepare food, his gaze unwavering. Occasionally, he would crouch behind the wooden furniture, just his eyes and ears visible, peeking over the edge to ensure no unauthorized snacks were being consumed without him.
But ruling a kingdom is exhausting work. By mid afternoon, the Grey Cat surrendered to the pull of the sofa. He sprawled across the white blankets, twisting his body into liquid shapes, or stretched his long legs out over a green towel. His guard came down, his breathing slowed, and he drifted into dreams of slow moving mice and bottomless bowls of cream.
Evening brought a different kind of magic. The Great Green Tree had appeared in the living room, smelling of pine and covered in glittering orbs. He sat beneath the low branches, eyes dilated and black as saucers, mesmerized by the twinkling lights. It was a forest created solely for his amusement, a place to hunt imaginary shadows.
Of course, living with the Giants came with a price. Sometimes, they felt the need to dress him. There was the incident with the blue bucket hat, which he wore with a look of confused stoicism. Then, there was the plaid shirt, where he found himself tucked into a warm pocket against a chest. He thought about protesting perhaps a sharp scratch or a loud meow but the warmth was undeniable. He sighed, resting his chin on the fabric. The Grey Cat knew that even a king must occasionally humor his loyal subjects.
Shannon Willis can usually be found in the company of furry friends. A passionate animal enthusiast, her work is often inspired by her deep love for cats, dogs, and the animal kingdom as a whole.
