Short Stories

Good Bye

It was my lovely little secret. I would follow the trail she led me through to the docks. The first time I followed her I was nervous. I didn't want her to turn around and be deterred by my presence. It took three tries before we finally made it to her destination. I had been caught and she would flee. Following her grew difficult, she learned more and would adapt, taking more careful routes, always remaining cautious. But I learned too. I learned how to stalk her, ducking behind trees, and following a basic path from last time assuming she was going to the same place. When I was finally led to those docks, it was a surprise. I never expected someone like her would find themselves in a salty place like this. The air was chilly and would cut right through any layers you might attempt to cover yourself with. The rigid air sucked it's way into your lungs, freezing any chance you had at internal warmth. Still I couldn't help but be relaxed. The waves colliding with one another, and splashing anything that dared come close enough. She was never that brave. Neither was I. I would bring her food, and flowers. The situation was a unique one and I was never sure what she wanted, but I always tried my hardest to make her life even a little bit better. Until now. Her face is clear, but shifted in a way...empty. She is no longer there. I've never seen a dead body before. Maybe a cat doesnt count. But I knew she was gone as soon as I saw those droopy ears, and tail refuse to move. I never knew what she did with her time, probably hunting or something along those lines. A few scabs and limps I'd seen over the months told me she had her fair share of enemies. I had been bringing her more food lately, having gotten some from a friend whose cat was picky. I had brought her extra every time, thinking about the tight way her skin hugged her skeletal structure. I let her rest, setting her motionless body down in her favorite spot. I sit on the edge, not caring about the water painting the bottoms of my jeans. I don't acknowledge the tears that manage to escape. It's peaceful here. No one ever comes to this part of the dock. I think that's why she liked it. Before leaving I set the food down. Maybe someone else needs it. Maybe they'll be just as attracted to this spot as she was.