Page 4 of Cat's Outta the Bag

I’m not exactly sure how long I stand there deciphering possibly the worst handwriting I’ve ever seen (and as a doctor, that’s saying a lot). But once I read it all, I can’t help but smile like an idiot standing in my hallway at ten in the morning, completely alone.

The box isn’t a bomb, so that’s good. But even better, Jason Adams doesn’t think I’m a complete psycho.

Dear Dr. Alexis Masters,

I think anyone who has the title of a doctor should use it. You earned it. Never be ashamed to flex your accomplishments.

Even though I was pretty quiet the other day, I thought you and Slinky were really cool, and I hope to run into you more often. In the box is something I thought you both would like; my sister has one and her two cats are obsessed. I hope you like it.

Your Friend,

Jason

P.S. I’m in apartment 511, in case you ever need something. And I’d love to see a picture of you and Slink enjoying the gift sometime, 310-555-9595.

I have to shake myself to get moving and actually open my door; I'm so giddy over this note. I set the box on my counter and greet Slinky, who comes running when she hears me. Even though she has an auto-feeder that can last for a couple of weeks, she definitely misses our cuddles when I'm gone at work. She chirps and weaves between my legs, giving me an affectionate rub.

"Now, Slinky, we've got a gift to open. I'm still salty at you about taking off and scratching Jason's face, but since he clearly doesn't hate us, I might be prepared to forgive you."

She continues to rub against my legs as if to say yeah, duh, Alexis, you never stay mad at me. And she’s right. Can’t hold a grudge to save my life.

“Alright then, let’s open this gift.” I rip into the wrapping (I’m always too excited to be mature about it), and I’m speechless when I finally get to what’s inside the box.

Tears in my eyes.

You can chalk it up to the emotional stress of the last few days, but this is so thoughtful I can barely hold it together.

I pull out the gray sweatshirt to show Slinky. "Look, sweet girl, this has a kitty pocket so you can walk around with me!"

I immediately shove my body into the sweatshirt and open the zipper pocket. Then, before she can run away, I snatch up my cat and stuff her in the pouch, zipping the opening almost shut but with enough room for her head to pop out. Which it does. I snap a quick selfie, and hands down, it is the cutest picture I've ever taken with Slinky. Shockingly, she seems happy in the lil kangaroo pouch.

Trying not to overthink it, I shoot off the selfie and a quick text to Jason so he knows I got the gift, then get to work on tidying up the apartment.

I definitely don't send six follow-up texts in less than one minute…. Nope, definitely not.

Chapter 4

Jason

I’m in my trailer reviewing the stunt choreography for my scene later today when my phone pings with a new message. When I notice it’s an unknown number, my pulse picks up. Every cell in my body is hoping it’s Alexis.

I can't help but laugh when I open the text and see the image. Alexis has the sweatshirt on, and Slinky's head is just peeking out of the pocket. Her smile is enchanting. I pump my fist in celebration, irrationally happy that she likes it, like a complete douche. Don’t come at me.

I don’t even read the text itself. I’m so busy being mesmerized by her smile. But once I do, I can’t help but laugh again. This woman.

Alexis: Hi Jason! Or Jason's phone person. Thank you so much for the gift, Slinky, and I are in love!

Alexis: Celebs have people manage their phones, right?

Alexis: Fuck, maybe that’s just social media?

Alexis: Fuck. Now I’m embarrassed.

Alexis: Also, to be clear, Slinky and I love the sweatshirt. Not you. We are not, and I repeat, are not, in love with you.

Alexis: I need to stop texting now.

Alexis: [sweating awkwardly emoji]

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