11. Chapter Eleven
Chapter Eleven
No Goodbyes
SAL
A Few Days Later
Sal hated saying goodbye to her cat, even if it was just temporary. As Rafa packed her luggage into the car, Willow prepared her senior dog, Mochi, and Mochi’s pet bed in the cottage, while Hana played with her cat toys.
A soft purr reached Sal’s ear. It was Kimmy, close to her human companion, as always.
The small tabby cat had walked onto the backrest of the sofa and sat beside Sal patiently, undoubtedly sensing that she wouldn’t go with her owner this time.
When Sal finally had the heart and made eye contact, the cat blinked slowly, as though telling Sal that she was going to be all right.
Sal’s heart ached as she scratched beneath Kimmy’s chin.
“You’ve always been a good girl and my best companion.
” She cooed, “I’ll be back. I promise.” Kimmy let out a soft meow.
Tenderly, Sal cuddled her tiny companion into her arms, whispering her love before leaving.
***
“No goodbyes.” Sal smirked, trying to lighten the mood as she hugged Rafa at the airport gates. “It’s only two months.”
“Might as well be forever…” he said, breathing in. “I’ll call you.”
“I love you,” she said as kissed him on the cheek. “I’ll bring back 1chicharon for you.” He took a deep breath as she let go. “I’ll call you as soon as I land.”
“I love you too,” he said, and in a few minutes, she walked through the gate.
1.
Chicharon is a Filipino appetizer or snack. It is deep fried crispy pig skin most commonly drizzled with salt.