The forest looked deserted. I scanned the woods, hoping to see the friendly, tan kitten emerge through the dusky evening light. Dry, brown leaves crunched rhythmically under my heavy boots, penetrating the silence. Though his tiny body and gentle nature made him a sweet kitten, it complicated the search . My thoughts wandered to losing my kitten–the one who had taught me to love cats. He was so small and innocent with no experience protecting himself! How could he survive the night?
Gusty winds kissed my face. I shivered. The shrinking time as night fell left much to be desired, and doubts began to swim in my mind. I’ll never find him; he’s long gone. My hope drowned in fear. Tears tumbled down my face as I perched on a loan log and looked into the distant woods. As I stared unexpectedly into the twilight, a small flash made my heart leap. I leaped off the rock, my confidence soaring. How disappointing: a simple squirrel!
Disheartened, I turned towards home. The next squirrel I glimpsed did not faze me, and I continued. Far ahead, my eyes caught the sight of an animal on the trail. It can’t...it is him! I sprinted to the kitten, scoping him into my arms and pressing his small, warm body against my pounding heart. I glanced at his furry face as he purred in delight. My gaze twisted up at the moonlit sky full of bright stars. The night had arrived at last and my kitten, as well!