It was thin but not emaciated with bright eyes that suggested it was healthy despite its apparent homelessness. "Poor thing," Faith murmured as they all observed the cat from the doorway. "I wonder where it came from." "Looks like one of the town strays," Yates said. "They usually keep to the alleys behind the saloons, hunting mice." "Can we keep it, Mama?" Emma pleaded. Please, it needs a home.
Faith hesitated. Sweetheart, we were going to wait for one of Shadow's kittens, remember? And this cat might belong to someone. I can ask around town, Yates offered. But I've never seen this one before if no one claims it.
He didn't need to finish the sentence. Emma was already beaming with hope, and Faith knew she was fighting a losing battle. "We'll put out some milk tonight," she conceded. "If it's still here tomorrow, we can consider taking it in temporarily." Emma clapped her hands in delight. I'll get the milk.
As she darted inside to fetch a saucer from their small kitchen, Yates chuckled. You're a soft touch, Mrs. Summers. Only where my daughter's happiness is concerned, Faith replied with a rofful smile. Though I suspect I've just acquired another mouth to feed.
If you need anything, we'll be fine, Faith assured him perhaps too quickly. But thank you, Yates, for everything. He studied her face for a moment, then nodded. I should get going. The ranch won't run itself.
He settled his hat on his head, touching the brim in farewell. Good evening, Faith. Good evening. As he walked to where his horse was tethered, Emmer ran back outside with a saucer of milk. Is Mr.
Yates leaving? Yes, sweetheart. He has work to do. Emma set down the saucer near the wood pile, then dashed after Yates. Mr.
Yates, will you come see my kitty tomorrow if it stays? He turned, smiling down at her eager face. I'd like that very much, Miss Emma. And if it does stay, what will you name it? Emma considered this seriously.
Maybe whistle, because you gave me my whistle today, and that's when we found the kitty. Whistle is a fine name for a cat. Yates agreed solemnly. As he rode away, Faith watched Emma coaxing the stray cat toward the milk. Her daughter's capacity for joy, despite all they'd endured, never failed to amaze her.