Page 112 of One Week Hating You
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THE NEXT DAY, I adopt the black cat. First, I need to fill out a questionnaire, and go through an interview to make sure we’re ‘compatible’. Then I’m given a bunch of paperwork – instructions, a list of all his shots, and health history. I’m also given a starter kit; a box, the blanket he likes, food samples, a brush and a toy. I’ve already bought food, a litter box and some litter, and a cat carrier.
I can’t come up with a name just yet so I just call him Kitty. I figure I will name him as soon as I get a better sense of his personality. After all the paperwork is done, and I’ve paid the costs, and we’ve managed to get Kitty inside the cat carrier I just purchased, with much effort, I walk away with my cat and my adoption kit.
As soon as we get home, I unlock the carrier door. Kitty doesn’t move. For six hours! He finally sneaks out when I’m in the washroom, and goes and hides in the corner behind the plant. I figure I’ll just give him his space. I know it must be weird: new environment, total stranger. I leave some food and water for him in the kitchen, and set up his litter in the laundry room. He’ll find everything when he’s ready.
I’m tired. It’s been a long day. I’m just getting ready for bed when my phone pings. It’s on the floor, hooked up to a charging cable. As soon as I pick up, an email notification pops up – it’s Serena Hollister. I can’t tap on my Gmail app fast enough, but as soon as I start to read the message, I know it’s bad news. She’s very sorry, and she goes on and on about how I am overqualified for the job.
I don’t care if I’m overqualified. I need money.
My bank account is getting low, I didn’t get the job, and my new cat hates me. My chest is heavy and I know the tears are coming. I’m sitting cross-legged, crying on the floor. Kitty pokes his head in, and just when I think he might come over and console me, like a good pet should do, he lifts his chin and turns around and walks away, like he couldn’t give a shit.
“Jerk”, I call out.
I peel my phone from the floor.
I hate my new cat. He’s a jerk.
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LFMO! Tell me more.
I’m in a real pissy mood now. Even Blake can’t cheer me up.
Well, first off, it’s LMFO, not LFMO! And he’s a jerk because he’s completely ignoring me.
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Well, he IS a cat. That’s what cats do. If you wanted attention, you should have gotten a dog.
He’s not helping at all.
How’s your cat?I ask.
Awesome! He’s so sweet and loves to play. I got some cat nip, and he’s hilarious. You should see.
I roll my eyes. Figures.
Well, so happy for you. May you live happily ever after together.
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I sense a bad mood, Freckles. Remember, I know you well.
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I didn’t get the job, I write.
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I’m sorry.
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I’m running out of money, and I need to find a new apartment soon.
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