𝐂𝐑𝐈𝐌𝐒𝐎𝐍.

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chapter_three — ( penicillin ).

"Here ya go, buddy." A happy mew and impatient munches fill your ears, the delighted crunching and munching coming from the lovable fuzz-ball. Your favourite part of the routine, simply watching the neighbourhood cat devour the cheap can of gas station grade pet food.

The friendly community companion was a —very well-fed— grey tabby cat whom the whole neighbourhood seemed to know and love. His owner being a middle aged woman named Hana. Often found sat lounging on her porch, tending to her many fauna, reading a new book, and, maybe every so often taking a phone call from whoever knows.

Every now and again, you would frequent this route home. Simply sitting on Hana's front porch, which you were welcome to, as you provide many treats for her darling kitty. A scenic detour through a properly managed, brightly-lit, semi-guarded neighbourhood that provided more than peace of mind.

"God, he eats like I don't feed him."

A gentle voice is heard, Hana, peeks through her now open door. Smiling fondly at the familiar visitor she so often had. The company not unwanted, nor unwelcome.

"Haha, can never have too much food now, huh buddy?" You laugh, amused as the fur-ball purrs away happily. As you give him a scratch under his chin. Now plump & content, you watch his stubby legs carry him to the front door of the home. Stopping to stretch out his little feet.

Taking that as your cue to leave, you pat the dust off your knees and rise from your position. As well as adjusting the strap of your bag to sit more comfortably before you move forward to begin the walk back home. Before you were stopped;

"You can always stay for a meal, ya know."

Hana says, her body turned sideways to let her pet slip inside through the crack of the door. She doesn't often say it verbally but, she worries for you. Like an elder sister or mother would. Or in this case, a concerned acquaintance. Dare I say, friend.

You turn back to face her, with a thankful grin and bow at the hip you say,

"You're truly too kind, Hana. But, I'm awfully tired after today's shift... Maybe next time?" With a yawn between words. Hana sighs as she returns your smile,

"Hmm, I'll hold you to that. Got it?"

"Feel free to make me sign a contract too why don't ya?" Hana laughs before waving you off, bidding you safe travels and stepping back into her abode.

You wave her one last goodbye, hoping she spots you through her—curtain blocked—windows and setting off.

The streets were dusted in the twilight, the sky turning into an aurora of deep orange and hues of blue. Soon, the street lights began flickering with a buzz before blaring white as various houses passed you by. Some tall, some short, some new, and some old. Several cars flying by on the street before pulling into their driveways, returning from a long days work.

A few heartfelt 'welcome home's' reach your ears with every passing property. A fleck of envy, as small as an ant even enough for emotions to arise, creeps up your spine. You swore you could feel the phantom touch of six legs crawling upwards. The feeling comparable to goosebumps.