Page 16 of Hidden Hero

“Medical school?” Samantha’s expression brightened even more. “Where do you practice?”

“I’m the medical examiner for the hospital. I cover the two counties?—”

“Oh, my goodness,” Samantha said. “I’m so glad to meet you! It’s always nice to meet someone in a similar field.” She laughed and shook her head. “Of course, I take care of the four-legged variety.”

Cora couldn’t help but smile. “Well, I care for those who are no longer living. You have to deal with the living creatures and their owners.”

Samantha laughed. “True. But you do autopsies, and sometimes I have to do necropsies. See? We’re not so different!”

“Yes, but you have to know the anatomy of various animals. At least, my work only deals with humans.”

As Samantha laughed again, Cora joined in. It was unusual to have someone she’d just met feel so familiar and comfortable.

“I’m so glad to meet you,” Samantha said. She pulled a card from her pocket. “My personal number is on that. I hope we can get together sometime.”

“I’d like that,” Cora agreed, finding the words true as she shared her number. She glanced at Joseph to see his shy smile was firmly in place as he stared lovingly at his wife. A wistful sigh slipped out.

“Are you ready to check out the cats?” Joseph asked.

Cora nodded enthusiastically, her excitement bubbling over. As they stepped into the cat adoption room, the muffled barking of dogs gave way to the softer sounds of meows and purrs. The air felt warmer here, more serene as if the cats exuded a calming energy that filled the space.

She wandered along the rows of cages, her attention drawn to each cat she passed. Some lounged lazily on plush beds, while others batted at dangling toys. When an exceptionally playful one reached out a paw, she chuckled and poked her finger through the slats, letting it swat at her gently. She rubbed the heads and chins of those who pressed against the bars for affection, each soft nuzzle warming her heart.

“Oh my…” she murmured, glancing back at Joseph. “How do I choose?”

Joseph grinned. “Do you want just one? Or are you still considering two?”

“Two, I think,” she said thoughtfully. “I work long hours and don’t want my pet to feel lonely. If there were two, they’d have each other for company. I also thought it might be better not to start with little kittens.”

“That makes sense.” He nodded approvingly. “Do you have any preferences? Or need any advice?”

She turned to him, her brow slightly furrowed as she considered. “What do you suggest?”

“Well,” Joseph said, motioning toward a row of larger cages on the far wall, “you might want to check out some of the siblings. Not all cats get along with others, but siblings or bonded pairs are already compatible.”

“Oh, that’s a great idea.” She followed him to the cages, her eyes scanning the larger enclosures. In one, a pair of sleek black-and-white cats caught her attention immediately. They were curled together on a plush bed, their bodies entwined like yin and yang. As she approached, both lifted their heads, their emerald-green eyes gleaming with curiosity.

One cat stretched languidly, its glossy coat shimmering under the lights, and licked its fur with a delicate pink tongue. The other yawned, then stood and padded gracefully to the edge of the cage. With a playful swipe, it batted at the air near her. Cora’s breath caught. She was instantly captivated.

“That’s Max and Mia,” Joseph said. “They’re about a year old. Siblings. Max is the more outgoing one with black front feet, and Mia looks like she has white booties on her front feet. She tends to follow his lead. They’re very bonded, so we’d prefer they stay together.”

Cora crouched down for a closer look. Max swiped at the air again, his paw brushing the glass as if trying to reach her. Mia tilted her head, watching her intently with wide, curious eyes.

“They’re beautiful,” Cora whispered, enchanted. “What can you tell me about their personalities?”

Joseph chuckled. “Max is a little mischief-maker. He’ll keep you entertained with his antics for hours. Mia’s more reserved but very sweet. She’ll be your little shadow once she warms up to you.”

Cora smiled, her heart already softening. “They sound perfect,” she said, her voice full of awe. Straightening, she turned to Joseph. “I’d like to meet them.”

“You got it.” Joseph unlatched the cage and reached inside, carefully picking up Max and gently placing him on the floor. Then he retrieved Mia, setting her down a little closer to Cora.

Cora plopped down onto the floor, crossing her legs and letting the cats approach her on their terms. Max trotted over immediately, his tail held high like a little flag of confidence. He sniffed her outstretched hand before nuzzling against it, purring loudly enough to make her laugh softly.

Mia lingered back, her movements slower and more tentative. But after watching Max interact with Cora, she padded closer, her steps cautious but deliberate. Cora reached out gently, letting Mia close the distance. When her hand finally touched the soft fur, Mia leaned into it, a quiet purr rumbling from her petite body.

“I think they’ve chosen you,” Joseph said with a grin, standing off to the side.

Cora laughed softly, her heart swelling with happiness. “I think so too,” she said, glancing down at the two cats who now seemed perfectly content by her side. “I’ll take them both.”

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