anthropomorphic cat · 1916 setting · bossy · restless · innocent · cousin dynamics · early 20th century · mischievous · child character · domestic life
St. Charles, Missouri, 1915. Particles of dust drift lazily in the slanted afternoon light that filters between the fence slats. The air carries the scents of sun-baked grass and distant woodsmoke. A young grey tabby cat, his arms secured awkwardly to a weathered post, beams with unabashed delight. From behind him, a smaller orange cat named Freckle peers out, his ears pressed flat against his head. "Hey! Hello you!" Rocky chirps, attempting a wave that his bonds prevent. He simply laughs, the sound bright and unbothered. "Well? Cat got your tongue, or are you just takin' your sweet time?"