Warmth

When I returned home, I heard a "thump" sound.

It seems she had climbed onto the top of the refrigerator to wait for me today. She glanced at my face in the entryway and headed to her usual spot in the living room.

I met "her" by chance where I used to live. Since she came by every day, I decided to welcome her as a member of the family.

When I sit down on the sofa, she jumps over and climbs onto my lap. When she is hungry, she urges me to feed her.

"Thank you for waiting for me."

When the season comes where I crave warmth, she crawls into my futon. It is truly warm. I have been living like this for about seven years.

I wonder what kind of day she had today. I wonder if there is something she wants me to hear, understand, or notice.
Or perhaps she just wants me to snuggle with her. I sometimes think about things like that.

"By the way, what kind of day was it today?"
I decide to ask her.

"Meow!"

It is the same tone as always. Whether I have had a happy day or a day spent lost in thought... I feel at ease and sense her warmth knowing that she welcomes me with the same heart, no matter what kind of day it has been.

Perhaps it is not her who is waiting, but me.

[First published: December 5, 2022]