Chapter 4The Ghost in My Phone

Jake was arrested, but only held for a short time. My injuries weren't "severe" enough, and in the eyes of the law, Lucky was just property, a stray cat with no monetary value. The system couldn't punish him properly. Jake's lawyer claimed he was remorseful and willing to offer financial compensation. Since we had been in a relationship, the police suggested we settle out of court.

His family was well-connected in the city. Friends, former colleagues, even my own boss started calling me, gently suggesting I drop the case.

"It's just a cat. Is it worth all this drama?"

"The family has money. Just take the settlement and get a new one."

"Why are you being so stubborn?"

Eventually, the suggestions turned into threats.

"You want to keep working in this town? Think carefully."

But that was my baby. He was brutally killed, and he died alone and scared, surrounded by strangers. And somehow, it had all become my fault.

While I was still gathering evidence, I found out Jake had been quietly released.

I couldn't accept it. I filed an appeal. I started documenting my entire legal battle online.

My company, wanting the bad PR to go away, sent me on the extended "business trip" to New Orleans.

I thought I would never see my Lucky again.

I never imagined I'd see him on a video call, purring and happy, on an app that came from the other side.