After getting the message I thought over every possibility of why Jack would want a cat out of all things. As I remember, he never had any pets even as a child, although he seemed to be good with animals. But perhaps that's why he now decided to have one.
It feels a bit weird that he asked his assistant to convey his request to me rather than telling it to me himself. But then again, it has been ages since the last time we talked, so it's understandable.
"Mom, do we have anything planned for this afternoon?" I turned to her in the car on the way to our new home.
"No, Mimi, you have the afternoon free," she told me.
"Great. I would like to go somewhere if that's okay," I said casually, trying not to raise her suspicion.
"Alright, just come back in time because you need to get changed before visiting the Lius."
"Don't worry, I won't be late," I smiled at her gently. "Then, could you drop me off here? I have something to do nearby," I said and pointed at the street ahead of us.
After the driver pulled over, I got out of the car and waved goodbye to my parents. I watched them leave and when they were out of sight, I hailed a cab to get to the address mentioned in the message. I could have gone there together with my parents but I don't want them to know where I'm going and why. I want it to be a surprise for Jack that he will actually get what he desires. And I bet either of my parents would have called Jack's father to ask if it is really okay to give his son an animal. I don't want my plans of making a good impression to be ruined by his father saying no.
The car stopped at an average house. It's not even a pet shop or anything but perhaps they just have too many kittens or they need the money so they decided to sell some of them.Not long after I rang the bell a thirtyish woman opened the door and ushered me in. The house was just as average inside as was from the outside but it seems cozy somehow.
"You can only take the black one," she said and pointed at a little cat resting on the living room carpet. "The others are not for sale."
"I'll take it. How much is it?" I asked and opened my bag to take out my purse.
"There's no need for you to pay. It has already been taken care of," she said which left me speechless. Did Jack already pay for it? Or rather, his assistant on behalf of him? Then how could I give him a present which he had already paid for himself?
"I see. Then I'll just take it and leave. I don't wish to disturb you any longer," I told her.
The woman picked up the cat, put it in a carrier, and gave it to me. She seemed nice but I felt like she is just doing her duty and now that she is done she is just waiting for me to leave. I can't blame her though. I would probably feel the same way if I were in her shoes.
I'm not sure whether Jack's father will be thrilled at the idea of having a cat in his home. But I don't care. If Jack really wants this little animal, so much that he even took the trouble to ask me to bring it to him, it's the least I can do to do just that. As long as it makes him happy, I don't care even if he wants me to buy a truckload of durians for him.
******
As it turned out, not even my mom was excited when I arrived home.
"Is this really a good idea? Are you sure they will appreciate it if you turn up with a cat?" My mom asked upon seeing my unexpected purchase.
"Believe me, they'll love it!" I smiled delightfully and gave the carrier with the cat in it to a maid then ran up the stairs to get ready for my meeting with Jack.
I chose a light green dress and as a memento of our childhood, I even put a matching green ribbon in my hair. As I'm looking at my reflection in the mirror, I can't help but think about his reaction when he sees me. I'm so excited and nervous I could scream. Jack is probably nervous, too. He must also be waiting for the time when we arrive. I'm sure of it.
I turned a few times before the mirror to see how I look in the new dress I recently bought. I have to admit this color really does suit me, even if I say so myself. This shade of green goes well with my black hair and compliments my skin complexion.
At this moment, I heard a knock on my door and as I turned my head I saw my mom enter my room.
"You look beautiful Mimi darling," she said softly and put her hand on my shoulder.
"Thanks, mom," I replied and suddenly I felt a bit embarrassed when I realized my parents will be there to witness our reunion. But I cannot do anything about that. Our parents are friends, so it would be weird if they weren't there to give Jack a toast upon he turns eighteen.
"If you really think he will be happy to get a cat, then I will support you all the way, dear," she told me kindly which made my eyes tear up, so I hugged her to not make it so obvious.We stood there for a while until I could finally recover myself and let go of her.
"You know, I really can't wait to meet him again," I said slowly. "I've been counting down the days until our return to the US."
"I know," mom said and stroked my face with her hand. "And believe me, this will be an unforgettable day for all of us."
I looked out the window and thought to myself:Yes, it will be memorable without a doubt.
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