Chapter 3The Godmother of Strays

My apartment is close to the clinic, just a seven-minute walk.

On my way home, the cats and dogs escorting me were highly trained, flanking me on all sides at a respectful distance.

Perhaps because I had joined their secret forum, I could now magically understand their chatter.

"Daisy, you mutt, slow down up there! The Godmother is tired after work; she can't walk that fast."

The mixed-breed dog in front of me visibly slowed her pace.

"But don't get too close, either. It looks too obvious."

Daisy let out a low growl. "Ginger, what is your problem? Always got something to say about me!"

A fight was about to break out, but the other members quickly intervened. "Alright, alright, the mission comes first! Street rules: in front of the Godmother, we keep the peace!"

Two simultaneous huffs. "Fine. For the Godmother's sake, I'll let it slide!"

It sounded like these were street cats and street dogs. They had their own world, their own feuds and dramas.

I used to think they were just hungry and looking for a handout.

Today, I learned they were on a mission to protect me.

And I, somehow, had become their "Godmother."