Cat Communication

'I don't want to get a cat,’ he says when I tell him we’re off to Battersea.

'We won't get one, then.'

I’ve chosen one online with grey fur that looks like the dress he loved. The one we buried her in. When we get there, I'm pleased it's the right shade. The best bit, though, the one I couldn't have orchestrated: the kitty comes to him without hesitation. She presses her furry nose against his hand, licks his thumb. Spontaneous feline adoption.

A cat can’t replace Mum, but she’ll keep him company.

Dad sighs.

‘We're getting a cat, then.’