Page 31 of A Fowl Match

I walk across the street to the NSSGtofind Violet behind the counter helping a customer. She’s so engrossed in their conversation that she doesn’t even notice me walk in. I sit on the green couch not far from the counter. Sardine lays across my lap, purring incessantly. I guess somebody is glad about my decision, but he sure seems to be happy to be here. My phone buzzes from my pocket with a text. I pet Sardine while I read the message.

NOLAN

How's farm life coming along?

DUSTIN

Still the same as when we talked last. Great. How’s NYC treating you?

NOLAN

I’m living large in your old apartment. Oh, btw I’m coming to visit next weekend for your final competition. Send me the details, I’ll see you then, Farmer.

“You got Sardine!”Violet shrieks and runs to greet him.

“I guess I did.” I still can’t believe it.

I slide my phone into my jeans’ pocket and lean against the back of the couch with a smug grin.

“Three questions. One, did you really get him? Two, what made you change your mind? Three, oh my god, you got him!”

“Yes. I felt bad for the kitten, so I went back to get him—I’m not heartless. Your third one wasn’t a question.” I hand Sardine over.

“You know what I mean.” She sighs at me, then proceeds to whisper loving words to the kitten like he’s the best thing in the world. I never thought I’d be so jealous of a cat.

“Do you want to go to my place and help me set up his new home?”

“Yes! Absolutely! I’m so excited. This is the best day ever. I’m closing the shop, that customer just left. I don’t care.”

“Calm down.” I chuckle.

“I can’t! Look at him. He’s the cutest little guy I’ve ever seen. Aren’t you, Sardine?” Her voice goes up an octave. She scratches behind his ears and he continues purring.

After turning off the lights and locking up she gets in the car with me. Her leg bounces with anticipation. Sardine sits on her lap sleeping.

I can’t believe I almost never adopted him.

Her hair is damp with beads of rain. She’s wearing her signature overalls over a sweatshirt. She shivers.

“Are you cold?”

“A little.”

“I can see your teeth chattering.” I say as I turn up the heated seats. I angle the vents towards her and crank them up too.

“That’s much better.” She sighs. Her eyes close.

By the time I pull in the driveway. They’re both sleeping. I want to take a picture of this moment. They look so peaceful. I wouldn’t dare wake either of them.

I shut off the engine and she stirs. Stretching her arms. Sardine copies her and stretches his paws out on her lap.

Violet smiles, “He’s adorable.”

“I know.”You are too.I want to say, but don’t.

“The front doors unlocked. I’ll bring everything in. Make yourself at home.”

“Thanks,” she exits my car and scurries inside with Sardine.

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