The Stray Souls ["The Diary Keeper" Sequel; "The Dark Legacies" Series]

Chapter 33: A little surprise

During those summer evenings, I particularly missed Stormy, and finally, I decided to bring her from Di Flores Manor to my own home. I'll keep the kitty in my room, set up a cozy corner for her, and just make her life happy so she doesn't feel lonely in the mansion.

Do you care about what parents, grandmas, and grandpa will say? I couldn't care less. Believe me, this beauty spent almost the entire school year in the dorm, and everything was fine. Why shouldn't she live with me in my house?

So, picture this - Stormy, the majestic furball, giving me that "I own the place" look with those green eyes. That's when it hit me: the girl needed a corner of her own. Like, a VIP spot in my room. So, I went full-on interior decorator mode.

After some serious contemplation, I picked the corner by the window. You know, the one where the sun decides to throw its warm vibes during the day. I set up this plush, circular bed with the softest blankets I could find. It's basically her throne now - catching rays like a feline sun god. And to add a touch of nature, I threw in a mini indoor garden. I figured he'd appreciate some plant exploration, you know?

Now, toys. I went all out with dangling feathers, interactive puzzles, and a scratching post that's basically her own personal gym. And get this - I even had a nameplate made.

Watching her chill there, I swear, it's like she knows she's the queen of her own little kingdom. It's the kind of joy only a crazy cat person like me can truly understand.

Stormy, welcome to your new home.

***

Cats are love and one of my greatest life pleasures. A cat will never betray or deceive you. It won't argue with you over the same guy you both like. It won't yell at you for coming home late. And, most importantly, you can trust a cat with any secret, and she won't tell a soul.

Since early childhood, I was forbidden to have a cat at home because it comes with a lot of hassle. But when childhood ends, so do all the prohibitions.

So, Stormy met my family on the second day after her move into my room. I didn't plan a formal introduction, it just happened naturally.

I won't go into every detail of what was said by me, my parents, and grandparents - just to clarify, it was a long, heated discussion filled with arguments. In a nutshell, everyone defended their point of view, and no one proved themselves right.

It ended with the agreement that I would take full responsibility for Stormy. My mom doubted my ability to handle it, considering I already have a bunch of issues to deal with.

"Don't worry, she lived in our dorm all these months," I added with a smile. To my mind, there's no point in describing the entire ensuing shock.

Seems like only Grandma Millie was pleased with everything. Probably because she loves any changes in life too much.

***

The next day was filled with surprises no less than the previous one. But this time, the surprise was prepared for me.

It started with waking up to loud music blaring right from my backyard. I immediately got out of bed and, being not in the best mood, approached the window to sort things out with those who disturbed my sweet slumber.

There were... Joe and Miles.

"Hey! Can we talk to the local celebrity?"

I groaned, slammed the window shut, and closed the blinds. Extra popularity sometimes doesn't bode well for the psyche, especially when your so-called "fans" are obsessed with everything happening around you.

"Hey, that wasn't a question!"

I let out a loud sigh. There was no pretending I hadn't noticed them because the guys could clearly see that I had. After sitting alone for a minute or two, I decided to open the window again and talk to the persistent guests.

"You barged into my backyard at seven o'clock in the morning!" I declared.

"That's right!"

"Is that your usual greeting instead of saying hello?"

"That's a solid reason to call the police," I ignored their lame jokes.

"Calm down, Liandra, what police? They'll thank us for helping in their investigation!"

"I haven't heard them rushing to your aid," I retorted.

"In short, Lia, we want to interview you."

"It's for our channel!"

I noted that this offer could be used to my advantage.

"Fine, but only after you do something for me."

"We agree to any conditions!"

I quickly wrote on a scrap of paper a list of my favorite sweets and tossed it into the backyard. Shortly after, the guys appeared at my doorstep with the task completed. I smiled sweetly, thanked them, took the treats, and... closed the door.

Of course, I didn't give them any interview.