But tabbies are girls, and though the existence of a female stray hadn’t technically been ruled out, it had never been proven either.
In all of werecat history, the only mention I’d ever heard of a female stray came from Manx, who claimed to have seen one in South America, where they’d both been imprisoned by Miguel and his band of tabby-nappers. But the Territorial Council was no more willing to believe Manx’s unsubstantiated claim of a scratch fevered tabby than they were willing to believe mine about the partial Shift.
But they were wrong about the partial Shift. Maybe they were wrong about female strays too…
“I’d like to try something, if you’re feeling up to it.” And even if you’re not… “When my cousin Abby and I were…locked up that time, and needed to Shift for our own safety? Do you remember me mentioning that?”
She nodded.
“Well, she was nervous and had trouble Shifting, so I tried to help her.” No need to mention the fact that my help didn’t actually work. “I can try to help you the same way, if you want.”
The tabby hesitated, and I could practically track her thoughts as her gaze flitted from me, to the plate of mostly eaten food, to the soft, warm bed, back to my very human-shaped clothes. The temptation was there. Now to sweeten the pot…
“How long has it been since you walked upright?” I asked, knowing she couldn’t answer with a wag of her head. “Don’t you want to talk? Take a shower, and wash your hair? Maybe play some video games? Do you like PlayStation?”
She nodded, less hesitantly this time, and I wondered if she was a Rock Band player, or more the God of War kind of gal.
“If you Shift back, we can get you some clothes, and you can eat your next meal at an actual table. Where you can sit on a chair, and still reach the floor with your feet. How ’bout some shoes? Whatever you want, we can get it. You say the word and I’ll send Lucas into town.” Her eyes were glued to my face, and I could see longing in her still-feline features. “You interested?”
This time she nodded her head firmly. Eagerly. Good girl.
“Great. Let’s get started.” I set the empty plate on the nearest bed and stood, facing the cat, who still sat on her haunches. “Now, I know you don’t remember Shifting into cat form this last time, but do you remember Shifting at all?” Might as well cover all the bases, just in case.