*Elio*

I woke with Cat wrapped around me like kudzu. I loved it when she cuddled throughout the night, but I hated having to wake her in the mornings. This morning, I woke up especially early because I was going into the office at our real estate development firm.

I slid from beneath her, trying my best not to wake her. She mumbled and moaned. I froze. She turned to her other side. Her breathing smoothed out and was rhythmic again.

I sighed in relief. ...