It’s Talula’s birthday
She is shy
Likes to sleep in corners, dressers, cabinets even
Hides from guests

She used to snuggle Theo
She used to play fetch sometimes
Bringing the toy back for more
Better than my dog

Now she likes to stay upstairs mostly
I feel guilty playing fetch downstairs with Clyde
Who is also
Better than my dog

When Talula and Clyde see each other
They both crouch
Hiss, growl
Sometimes next to the Multi-Cat pheromone diffuser meant to calm them

Why can’t you get along? I ask them
You could be best friends!
You both love fetch!
You both miss Theo!

We love Talula’s golden nose and chin
Her wide bright eyes
And how she chose us in the cat room
By falling asleep in my arms