Chapter 4The Cat Who Saved Me

Ever since Leo was a kitten, I'd been working on socializing him. We started with late-night walks when no one was around, then moved to daytime strolls when the park was quiet. Slowly, he got braver, and now we regularly went out to sunbathe. They say a well-socialized cat is less stressed at the vet, and it's true. When Leo went in for his surgery, he acted like he was visiting Disneyland, tail held high, exploring every corner of the clinic as if he owned the place.

After he finished his breakfast, I got out his harness.

Mom, cat no wanna wear.

"Leo, this is to protect you. If something tries to attack you, Mommy can pull you away safely, okay?"

Oh...

He didn't seem to fully grasp it, but he dutifully lifted his paws so I could put on the little pink harness with the bow.

I usually carried him in the elevator. We lived on the fifth floor, so it was pretty convenient.

Ding.

The elevator doors opened to reveal a tall guy and a giant Samoyed. Leo, who had been bouncing with excitement, immediately burrowed into my arms.

Mom, cat scared.

"It's okay, Mommy's here," I soothed him. "We can just take the next one."

I waved a hand to signal for them to go ahead, but the guy, wearing a baseball cap, didn't seem to see me. He gave me a questioning look, then his eyes fell on the cat in my arms, and he seemed to understand. I thought he was going to hold the elevator, but instead, he took a step forward, blocking my view of the dog. Leo, no longer able to see the source of his fear, stretched his neck out, trying to get a peek.

I whispered a thank you and stepped into the elevator.

Mom, he say he goin' downstairs to eat poop. Can cat eat poop?

I practically fled the elevator, trying to stifle a laugh.

"Leo, poop is not food."

Mom, doggo so sad.

"Doggo? Is that the dog's name? Why is he sad?" He'd looked perfectly happy and well-cared for to me. Clean white fur, bright eyes. The owner, the tall guy in all black, had a "don't talk to me" vibe, but you could tell he was handsome under that cap.

Leo didn't answer right away. "Why is he sad?" I asked again.

Leo's voice was filled with somber pity. He say his dad no let him eat poop.

I nearly died laughing.