It was Christmas Eve at the secret headquarters. This was not the snowy North Pole, but the high backed, black and white throne in the living room the command center for all important household operations. Two elite operatives, members of the specialized Santa Cat unit, were suited up and ready for deployment.
The Captain, a fluffy tuxedo sitting upright in a velvet red cape, surveyed the room with a critical eye. He checked the perimeter for unauthorized movement, specifically scanning for the opening of the treat cabinet.
Focus, recruit, the Captain seemed to signal with a twitch of his whiskers. The night is long, and the milk hasn’t even been poured yet.
Beside him, the recruit was already losing the battle against gravity. Lying flat against the leather seat, the younger tuxedo felt the heavy burden of the holiday season pressing down. The red hood slipped low over one ear, dampening the festive spirit.
I’m pacing myself, sir, the recruit projected through a sleepy blink, paws tucked neatly underneath in a perfect loaf. Strategic napping is essential for morale. Besides, this cape is very warm.
The Captain wasn’t amused. He turned his head, ears swiveling toward the kitchen sounds. The lack of immediate tribute was concerning. He sat alone for a moment, pulling his hood tight to frame his face in white fluff, and delivered a stare that could freeze water. We are the guardians of the tree, his posture said. We are the watchers of the wrapping paper. We deserve the salmon.
Finally, the recruit looked up, big golden eyes widening in a plea that no creature could resist. It was the ultimate weapon, The Gaze. If we look festive enough, the recruit seemed to think, perhaps the food bowl will magically refill itself.
And so, on the great chair of command, the two furry Clauses waited. They did not wait for a sleigh or reindeer, but for the most important sound of the season, the pop of a tin lid.
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.
