"Noooowrr," Mary mewed. "I like it this wrrray. And youwwr'e nice to mree."
Jess unexpectedly felt sincere compassion building inside of her. After what he had done to her friend, Mary still liked her. But would she like Jess enough to let her be her mother?
"Sweetie, now that you finished lunch, you can run off and play if you want." She saw Mary's bright yellow eyes widen and her tail begin to fly around. "But first, I want you to wear this so that if you get lost you'll always find your way back." Jess had bought a collar while she was out getting clothes for Mary. It was red with a gold tag bearing Mary's name and Jess' phone and address. "Now don't wander off too far, and come back before it gets dark."
Mary thanked Jess, who kissed her on her furry forehead. The seven-year-old catgirl dashed out the door, eager for some exciting adventures.