The space I had tried to keep between us by using the room was long gone, was never really there if I were being completely honest with myself. As much as Alexa’s lie angered me, still remained like a pebble in my shoe walking away from her wasn’t something I could do. Three days without her felt like an eternity.

My first night away from her, I drunk myself into oblivion swearing it was done and over. Until I saw her the next day. I had gone as far as writing the email to my new head of human resources to terminate Alexa until I imagined someone else at her desk. The thought turned me to ice, I knew then that is how life would be without her, cold and empty.

Still my fear clung to me, giving into her would give her the power I wasn’t sure I trusted her with. Until I realized she already had the power, I was empty without her. My hunger grew until it consumed my every waking minute. Giving in that night as I made love to her in angry desperation, Alexa soothed the savage in me with her willingness, her own need. Falling asleep with her in my arms I knew she was where she belonged, in my arms. Her place was in my arms and my home was holding her, it was where my mind stilled and my soul was soothed. For now, it was the only thing that mattered, the rest would come eventually.

Back at the office, Alexa is looking tired and stressed about the bite being infected. I tell her to go home early. I will be home after I get some clothes. My plan is to surprise her with the kitten and hope it works.

I check on the kitten often on the way to Alexa’s worried about how quiet she is. She is sleeping away unconcerned. When I open the door, Alexa is cooking something that smells delicious. I love her cooking, her father taught her well.

Her eyes go wide at the carrier. “What is that?”

“She is hopefully the answer for Felix treating me like his scratching post. I talked to my doctor, and his nurse overheard. Based on her two cents and the lady at the shelter place, I would like to introduce you to Maxi.” I set the carrier down. Both Alexa and Felix edge closer slowly. Opening the carrier, Maxi peers out at Felix. She makes her way out of the carrier on unsteady legs.