They simply went through the motions each day, clinging to the hope that the next day would bring word from Rytsar.
Brie began humming Rytsar’s lullaby to Hope, wanting to ensure she remembered herdyadya.
Master Anderson knew about Rytsar’s mission and understood the pain they were suffering. Being a kindhearted man, he called Brie out of the blue to let her know that Shadow was welcomed to visit.
“Do you really mean that?”
“I do, young Brie.”
“When?”
“Anytime.”
“Would now work?”
He chuckled. “Now would work just fine.”
Brie squealed, overjoyed that Shadow would finally be reunited with his family. The large black cat had taken on the role of comforter in their home after they’d come back from Italy. He drifted back and forth between Brie and Sir, providing a soothing presence that was complemented by the calming sound of his purr.
However, Brie knew it was a burden for the cat because they were so deeply entrenched in their sorrow that his need to comfort them could not overcome it.
Sir joined Brie on her trip to Master Anderson’s house. Shadow sat up front on Brie’s lap, content to look out the car window. Brie had to wonder what he was thinking. He could not know their destination. And yet, the cat was so calm as he was taken from the apartment that Brie let him out of his carrier once they were in the car. She marveled at the fact he was so trusting. How could Shadow be certain she wasn’t taking him to the vet?
She shook her head in amazement as she petted him.
“What are you thinking?” Sir asked.
“I can’t believe Shadow is so trusting.”
He chuckled. “He’s only that way with certain people. Therefore, his level of trust now speaks volumes about you.”
Brie stroked his soft fur, grateful for Shadow. “He was there for me as support at the commune. And, later, when he came to live with me after Master Gannon died. I owe him a lot.”
“Well, he obviously loves you, and has even come to accept me because of you.”
She let out a long sigh. “It feels good to finally be able to do something for him. You know?”
Sir smiled. “While I have never felt that way about an animal, I can understand your sentiment. He has been an asset to our family.”
Rytsar…
Brie had to push away the feelings that threatened to ruin this moment. This was about Shadow, and all the focus needed to be on him.
When they finally reached Master Anderson’s house, Brie didn’t even bother with the carrier, choosing to carry the giant black cat up to the house while Sir brought Hope.
Shadow glanced around his surroundings with interest until Master Anderson opened the door. As soon as their eyes met, Shadow narrowed his.
“Looks like someone is happy to see me,” Master Anderson joked.
Sir patted his friend. “He didn’t care much for me either, at first. However, the animal has an uncanny soul and I’ve grown to respect him over time.”
Master Anderson frowned slightly. “He may be an extraordinary animal, but he defiled my Cayenne.”
Brie giggled. “No, he didn’t, Master Anderson. He made sweet, passionate love to her, and there are six beautiful offspring to prove it.”
Master Anderson crinkled his nose, but Shey came up behind him, wrapping her hands around his muscular arm. “They’re beautifulandadorable. We’ve had so much fun with those little rascals, and we’ve posted their antics all over Instagram.” She looked up at the muscular Dom, adding, “Life wouldn’t be the same without their crazy cuteness, admit it.”
He gave her a charming grin. “True, they do make me laugh.”