Always Mine (An MCU Fanfiction)

28. The Cat Who Chose Me

An entire week passed without much excitement.

Most of my time was spent around the ranch, target practicing with Brett and Gunner, helping gather firewood, or simply relaxing. We only went into town when supplies ran low or something needed picking up.

Today, I'd volunteered to handle a few errands. Part of it was wanting to help out, but if I was being honest, cabin fever had finally gotten the better of me. I needed a change of scenery.

Brett had no problem lending me the pickup. He handed me a shopping list, some cash, and sent me on my way.

A couple of hours later, I finished the last errand and was loading bags into the truck bed when a soft mew caught my attention.

I turned to find a midnight-black cat sitting a few feet away.

Its emerald-green eyes stared directly into mine.

"Hey there, little guy," I said, crouching down and offering my hand. "Where'd you come from?"

The cat immediately rubbed against my fingers, purring contentedly.

There was no collar around its neck, and no signs that anyone was looking for it. Despite that, its coat was sleek and well cared for.

"You're awfully friendly for a stray."

The cat responded by butting its head against my hand again.

I laughed.

"I don't suppose it'd hurt to bring you back to the ranch. I'll ask the guys if it's okay."

As though it understood every word, the cat leapt gracefully into my arms.

A loud rumbling purr vibrated against my chest.

"Guess that's a yes."

The cat settled comfortably against me as I climbed into the truck.

"You need a name," I mused.

The feline blinked up at me.

"Hmm... how about Shadow?"

Its purring instantly grew louder.

"Shadow it is."

When I pulled into the ranch driveway, Shadow rode on my shoulders like he'd been doing it his whole life.

The moment I stepped out of the truck, he climbed into position and wrapped himself comfortably around my neck.

Gunner rolled out onto the porch as I started unloading supplies.

His eyes immediately landed on my passenger.

"Well," he said, raising an eyebrow, "that's new."

I smiled.

"He kinda followed me home."

"For a stray, he looks pretty attached already."

"Tell me about it."

Shadow rubbed his cheek against mine.

"I hope you guys don't mind if he hangs around."

Gunner chuckled.

"I don't care. You'll have to ask Dad."

"Where's he at?"

"Workshop."

"Got it."

I found Brett busy working on one of his latest projects.

"Back already?" he asked.