Snowflake's Story

Chapter Nine

"May cats of the clowder gather around for an announcement from Crow and Red!" River called.

River's booming voice was now comforting to Snowflake, after what he had said to her yesterday.

"It kills me to see a life end at such a young age," River had told her. "You will get through this, Snowflake. I just know it. You are strong, and I believe in you."

Now cats were gathering around him. Snowflake sat in between James and Bird. On the other side of James was Glow, and on the other side of Bird was Cocoa. Blizzard was behind them.

"Wonder what the 'announcement' is," Cocoa whispered to Bird.

"I have no idea," Bird replied honestly.

River waited for everyone to sit down. "Okay, everyone. Crow and Red have a very important announcement for all of you." He stepped back, signaling with his tail for Crow and Red to stand in front of him.

Crow dipped her head in respect to River and twined her tail with Red's. Together they sat down in front of River, pressed against each other. Snowflake thought that they couldn't be closer to each other.

"There has been tragedies lately," Crow began, glancing at Blizzard.

Blizzard nodded.

"And the clowder hasn't had any new litters lately. So, River said he was happy to let me and Red announce that--"

"We're having kittens!" Red cheered, cutting her off with excitement. He glanced at Crow, his green eyes showing an apology, but Crow was smiling.

Blizzard's eyes lit up. Snowflake knew that Crow was her friend; she also loved kittens.

Night, Crow's younger sister, was the first to start cheering. Then Apple, Red's younger sister, then Stars, Crow's sister, then Spider, Red's younger brother, then Hop, Crow's brother. Then the rest started cheering.

Red's eyes shimmered with pure happiness. "If only Tim were here to see this!"

Red's happiness reminded Snowflake of how happy Glass was when she opened her eyes. With a pang in her heart, she remembered her brother's coat cuddled up to hers. She shook her thoughts away and continued to cheer for Crow and Red.