A Perfect Match

Something quick and light brushed my right ear and I turned. Morris was sitting at the front of his cage, one white-tipped paw extended through the bars. I moved closer to cage and he reached out again, tapping my left ear with his paw.

“Excuse me,” I called over my shoulder to the volunteer. “Can I hold him?” I asked as she came up beside me.

“Morris?” she asked. “Sure.” She swung the door open and reached her hand in, but Morris had backed into his corner again.

“Let me try,” I said. She backed away.

“Morris,” I called softly. “Hey Morris.” He edged forward and I lifted him out of the cage. He settled himself in my arms, his front paws on my chest. The tears that had been burning the back of my eyes threatened to overflow and I bent my head low over him. He reached his bony, pointed face up to mine and, with a growling purr, licked my ear. My chest constricted. Tears ran down my cheeks.