The tiny black kitten mewed pitifully, the last of the
litter that had been held in the old cardboard box.
"Don't even think about it Sandburg" Jim growled as he
led his guide away from the free kittens sign. "No pets
allowed."
"But Jim..."
"No buts..." God he hated it when the kid turned on the
wounded puppy dog look. "Forget it. I don't do cats." He
herded his friend into the bookstore next door. "Now go
get what you came for so we can get home."
They were inside for several minutes before Jim snuck
out the door and strode purposefully to the box. He
scooped up the kitten and glared at it balefully.
"I swear" he muttered as the kitten cuddled happily
against his chest purring loudly. "I'm never taking him
anywhere on his birthday again."
